The Vryheid cemetery, traditionally a place that symbolizes peace and serves as the final resting place for loved ones, has sadly become a target for vandals, undermining its sanctity and the respect it deserves.
While the recently cut grass has made access to graves more convenient for visitors to pay their respects, the increased attention has led to the destruction of tombstones throughout the cemetery.
Initially, it was believed that only historical graves were being targeted, but local historian André van Ellinckhuyzen clarified that this is not the case and that all graves, regardless of their historical significance, are being vandalised.
Several tombstones at the cemetery have been either kicked or pushed over with many now lying broken.
The SAPS Forensic Service attended the scene to investigate the damage and gather evidence,
Asked to comment on the destruction, Councillor Elaine Rodway said ‘there is absolutely no excuse for desecration or vandalism of graves’
“As a civilised society, we should have respect for the dead. While it is a step in the right direction that the cemetery is being cleaned up – which is itself a massive operation given the condition and the size of the area – we must take it a step further and secure the area to keep these vandals out. The area should be fenced, which I believe is something that Community Services has every intention of doing. It may also be viable to implement operating hours and close the premises after a certain time. Security systems should also be put in place.”
Admitting that these efforts would be costly Cllr Rodway said it ‘is unfortunate that we have to foot the bill for the complete and utter lack of respect of a handful of miscreants who apparently have nothing better to do with their time than to loiter in graveyards and cause damage and destruction.’
“We must protect the final resting place of those who have passed on and acknowledge that, even though they are deceased, they were once a part of our community.”

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The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.