Neglect and vandalism at Bredell Cemetery sparks outrage

Concerned residents, including Annette Day, contacted the Kempton Express regarding the deterioration of the Bredell Cemetery, where many families have laid their loved ones to rest.

She, along with others, called for urgent intervention and said the cemetery’s condition is disrespectful to the deceased and distressing to those visiting their graves.

Residents said it had become increasingly difficult to locate graves because of the overgrown grass and poor maintenance, describing the site as unsightly and neglected.

ALSO READ: Bredell Cemetery in disrepair as residents plead for dignity

On March 27, the Kempton Express contacted CoE spokesperson Zweli Dlamini and departmental representative Agnes Masilo for comment, requesting a response by March 31. However, we had received no reply by the time of publication.

We eventually received feedback from the city’s communication department on July 2, which stated that the CoE had not abandoned the cemetery and had maintained it earlier this year.

“The Bredell Cemetery has not been in a persistent state of neglect. Routine maintenance, including grass-cutting, litter picking and rubble removal, was done as early as February,” said Dlamini.

“However, due to the rainy season, grass and weeds grow back quickly, which might cause the site to appear untidy soon after servicing.

“Maintenance teams have attended to the cemetery as part of their regular schedule. However, the unpredictable weather and resource constraints can lead to brief periods between service cycles where conditions seem to deteriorate.”

ALSO READ: Vandalism at Bredell Cemetery condemned

Dlamini added that people must consider seasonal and operational factors, and confirmed that the Bredell Cemetery remained part of the city’s monthly maintenance plan.

On April 10, the Kempton Express published a letter from Day, who shared her distress about the cemetery’s condition.

“Our two sons are buried just inside the entrance. Next to their graves, building rubble has lain there for five years. The grass is so long, you cannot see the graves,” she said.

“Some time ago, the cemetery was in the paper because of how bad it was. Promises were made, but nothing has changed.”

Day noted the destruction of the Wall of Remembrance, where ashes are scattered, with several plaques destroyed.

“This is deeply painful. Many of us no longer have anything to show where our loved ones were laid to rest.”

Ward Clr Marinda Beukes also condemned the cemetery’s state and the reported vandalism.

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“The DA condemns the senseless vandalism at the Bredell Cemetery, which left the Wall of Remembrance damaged, plaques and urns destroyed, and the ashes of loved ones scattered on the ground.”

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

“The DA remains committed to holding the city accountable and ensuring that our cemeteries are places of dignity and respect,” Beukes added.

Residents also raised concerns about infrastructure and safety. The toilets at the cemetery were vandalised, the gate rails and lights were stolen, and the site has no security.

Many believe that having proper security would have prevented much of the damage.