Ward Councillor Marinda Beukes has strongly condemned the recent vandalism at Bredell Cemetery in Kempton Park, an incident that has left the community reeling with anger and disbelief.

The act of desecration saw the Wall of Remembrance damaged, plaques and urns destroyed, and ashes of loved ones scattered on the ground.

“This heinous act is a heartbreaking violation of a sacred space meant for mourning and reflection,” said Beukes.

She also urged the City of Ekurhuleni to prioritise the safety and upkeep of cemeteries.

The vandalised Wall of Remembrance at Bredell Cemetery in Kempton Park, where plaques were destroyed and urns containing human remains were desecrated. Picture: Supplied

In a statement, the Democratic Alliance (DA), extended their sympathies to the families affected by the incident: “We extend our deepest sympathies to the families affected by this act of vandalism. Their grief is compounded by the ANC-EFF coalition’s neglect of its responsibilities and uncaring attitude.”

Speaking on the incident, City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said that an assessment of the damage at Bredell Cemetery is still underway.

He added that security measures have been increased to prevent further acts of vandalism.

“An assessment is still being conducted to determine the exact action required. For now, we have beefed up security to prevent further incidents of this nature,” he said.

Dlamini further said that the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) is responsible for ensuring the security of all municipal facilities. This includes providing direct physical security or deploying private security companies where necessary.

Community members took to social media platforms to express their frustrations over the vandalism at Bredell Cemetery. Many shared their outrage and disappointment, calling for immediate action from the City of Ekurhuleni to safeguard municipal facilities.

“My late husband's ashes were vandalized at Braamfontein, his copper urn was taken and his ashes are gone,” said Cathy Meggersee

“Did The Same Last Year At Braamfontein Cemetery,” said Bernadett Booysen

“This is the highest degree of disrespect and I hope the culprits understand the kind of karma that's going to be after them,” said Ryan Randall

“Why they don't hire security companies to guard the cemeteries and cleaning companies to clean? because we're paying a lot of money at the mortuary,” said Lebohang Lebza Goodwill.

“It seems like this happening in every part of the country cemeteries. They stole a whole headstone of my Brother last year,” said Itu Jazzfundi.

“This vandalism started a long time ago, it was Avalon, then Mooifontein now it's Bredell... and I was there on the 23rd to clean my aunt's grave...these criminals steal the brass or copper containers,” said Iggybaks Koikanyang.

“This is a huge shame. Don’t mess with the dead they have done nothing to you. So sad to see the direction of where South Africa is going. Unruly and Backward Barbaric people that disrespects the land. South Africa has not gone forward one bit since 1994. Say what you want it’s the truth,” said Jeff Mcloed.

Dlamini said that the matter is still under investigation and no one has been arrested to date.

The Star

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