The brother of murder victim, Felicia Persad, who was killed and dumped in the Mitan River, says he is confident that the family will get justice.
Felix Persad, a police officer, was speaking at his sister’s funeral service at the New Birth Church of God, River Road, Vega de Oropouche, on Wednesday.
Placing his hands on his sister’s casket he said she loved him and he loved her. “She showed me all the respect that I deserved,” he added. Overcome by emotions, he was not able to say any more.
Scores of people turned out for the funeral, many questioning why her life had to end in such a brutal way.
Felicia was reported missing on April 2 and her decomposing body was found on April 15 at the Mitan River with her hands tied behind her back, legs bound together, cord around her neck and a wound to her abdomen.
Her uncle, James Persad, questioned why family and friends had to wait for unfortunate circumstances to get support. He said that was the fourth time the Persad family got together, three times due to tragic circumstances and once for a family reunion.
“At no time must friendship be one way. It should be for all the time and not one time only as in this circumstances,” he said. He described his niece as a loving and giving person.
“We must all reach out to all, do not be too proud. Reach out to all,” he said.
Cousin Diantha Johan who read the eulogy, said Felicia, or Radha as she was called by neighbours and family members, was kind, willing, jovial and determined.
“She help others but kept it private. She was always willing to progress in life so as to make her self better. She always put people first and was people-friendly.
“At age 25, she lost both parents in tragedy and this gave her a big challenge in life. She would make everyone laugh when they are sad. Children loved her and would prefer to stay with her instead of their parents because she would play and reach to their standard to make them comfortable,” Johan said.
Reverend Rhonda Marcelin who officiated at the funeral service, appealed to mourners to lift up the country in prayers as the Bible clearly stated that love of man would grow cold.
Marcelin said young people were crying out for help and families were going through turmoil because many had taken God out of school, homes and churches.
“Let God takes its rightful place so that some peace and love can be restored in this country,” she appealed.
To the Persad family, Marcelin advised them to let God take vengeance and declare peace in the family.
She added when a life was taken there was more than tragedy, in Felicia’s case, she could not be found but God’s hand was there to find her.
RALPH BANWARIE
