Probe launched: 21-gun salute absent at cop’s funeral

The police high command has ordered an investigation into why a 21-gun salute was absent from the funeral service for Corporal Oliver Mulling of the Kingston West Division, who was killed in the line of duty last month.

The 21-gun salute, commonly recognized by many nations, is the highest honor rendered.

Reports are that the absence of the salute, along with other activities that were reportedly below standard at the funeral held in Old Harbour, St Catherine, on Sunday, November 27, left several Jamaica Constabulary Force members livid.

The late policeman was killed while on foot patrol in the Trench Town community on October 20.

During his funeral service, the lawman was remembered as a dedicated son of Jamaica.

Before leaving the burial site, reports are that Police Commissioner Antony Anderson ordered an investigation as to why the courtesy was not extended to the slain policeman.

Members of the police high command also warned of swift corrective action once the findings are presented.

The police high command said consistent with the official funeral policy and procedures for sworn and separated members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the corporal should have been afforded:

The coffin draped in the Jamaican flag, police hearse, uniformed pall-bearers, vigil party, honor guard, escorts, buglers or trumpets, ushers, force wreaths, wreath orderlies, JCF choir, firing party, tribute from the Commissioner of Police, uniformed mourners.

Police sources have revealed that all these courtesies were extended to him with the exception of the firing of volleys, which would have been executed by the firing party, but who was absent.