THE LATE CONSTABLE HEEPS.

Manawatu Herald, Volume LIV, Issue 4409, 25 October 1934, Page 1

THE LATE CONSTABLE HEEPS.

COMMISSIONER’S EULOGY. To the accompaniment of impressive ceremonial, the burial of Constable Thomas Heeps, who, in the execution of his duty, was murdered by a Maori on Saturday, took place at Morrinsville cemetery on Tuesday. Unprecedented scenes ere witnessed as the cortege proceeded to the graveside, when the silent procession of police and civilians numbered 800. Amongst those present were Mr W. G. Wohlmann (Commissioner of Police), Inspector Lopdell, and other senior officers. The first portion of the burial service was read at Knox Presbyterian Church, where Constable Heeps was an elder, and afterwards at the graveside. Commissioner W|ojhlmann expressed heartfelt regret at the swift and unexpected death which had robbed the service of a loyal and honourable officer. “As with the soldier,” he said, “a police officer is liable to be ambushed and, usually unarmed, is taken at a deadly disadvantage by law breakers with murderous hands. Oar dead comrade, a witnesp of the truth of what I say, is the last of a long line of brave men who have laid down their lives in the execution of their duty.”