Police investigate vandalism at Wellington Cemetery

Police are investigating a case of malicious damage to property after the Wall of Remembrance at Wellington Cemetery was vandalised, leaving dozens of niches defaced and some cremated remains removed.

According to the Drakenstein Municipality, 62 of the 70 occupied niches in the memorial wall were damaged during the incident, with marble stones shattered and inscriptions completely defaced. The Wall of Remembrance has a total of 360 niches.

Municipal officials described the attack as an “appalling act of vandalism”, with Mayor Stephen Korabie expressing dismay at the disrespect shown.

“We strongly condemn the disgraceful act of vandalism committed at the Wall of Remembrance,” said Korabie.

“These actions show a shocking disrespect for our community and its values. To be able to do that to the final resting place of someone’s loved one fills me with disdain.”

Korabie confirmed that some of the cremated remains had been removed during the incident, with only 36 sets of remains recovered by officials at the site.

These have since been placed in safekeeping at a municipal facility.

“The marble stones purchased by the aggrieved families were shattered into pieces and many were completely defaced,” he said.

The municipality has pledged to support affected families and will launch a public participation process to determine the future of the memorial wall.

“As the municipality continues to engage with the affected families, we will embark on an extensive public participation process to discuss possible courses of action for the future of the Wall of Remembrance to ensure a dignified and lasting solution,” said Korabie.

Police spokesperson Wesley Twigg confirmed a case of malicious damage to property was opened.

“Kindly be advised that a malicious damage to property case was registered for investigation following an incident at a cemetery (on) July 21, in Wellington,” said Twigg.

“The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation and no arrests have been made yet.”

Police have urged anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile application anonymously.

Cape Times