SAPS arrest four for stolen tombstones
A collaborative investigation between the SAPS and the CPF found the granite slab at the owner’s business property.
The owner of a manufacturing company and three employees were charged with theft after they allegedly stole granite tombstones from gravesites at the Phumulani Cemetery in Etwatwa.
When the police investigated, they found 200 vandalised tombstones at the cemetery.
SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Barbra Ndaba explained that the men were arrested after a community member received a tip-off about the theft of tombstones, prompting him to rush to the cemetery to check on his mother’s grave.
“Upon his arrival, he found his mother’s gravesite vandalised. He reported that the granite slab’s base was removed, and the top part lying to the side,” said Ndaba.
Through a collaborative investigation between the police and the CPF, a granite slab valued at about R23 500 was found at the manufacturing company.
According to the police, they opened two cases against the business owner.
The four suspects have since appeared in court.
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