Nico Verdijsseldonk (42) whose grandfather is buried at the Geduld Cemetery says, “When we arrived at the cemetery, my grandfather’s tombstone was pushed over and damaged.
“We were so shocked at the disrespect and vandalism at this place of rest, we had to put the tombstone back up again, in its rightful place.”
Many local residents have complained about the damage done to their loved one’s last resting place, with one resident, John Sharman (68) saying the vandalism of tombstones and graves is the reason he has chosen to be cremated.
Themba Gadebe, spokesman for the metro says, “A cemetery is not only a final resting place for our loved ones who have passed on, but also a place that links communities and individuals to their history and heritage.”
The metro has taken a decision to apply stringent measures in an effort to bring an end to the ongoing acts of vandalism to property within its cemeteries.
Themba says, “Perpetrators of these crimes will be subject to pay either a fine of up to R2 000 or to serve six months in jail.”
“Hundreds of graves have been damaged throughout the metro, with some headstones being pushed over and sentimental ornaments and valuables being stolen for illegal trade in the informal market,” adds Themba.
He urges members of the public to keep an eye out for vandals and to report any suspicious activity.
The affected families will be within their rights, as guided by the approved EMM cemetery bylaws, to claim for repair expenses from the identified vandals.
Public members can contact Sanelisiwe Mongoai on 011 999 4090 or email Sanelisiwe.Mongoai@ekurhuleni.gov.za or alternatively report the criminal activities directly to the police.
The Addie asked our Facebook readers what they think of these new penalties. Here is what they had to say:
- Henri Steppe:”Good, but are they going to patrol and enforce it?”
- Louise Swart: “It’s a shame what vandals do, no respect at all. They should be locked up.”
- Lynn Neethling: “What do these vandals get out of destroying gravestones?”
- Ruth Malan: “They don’t even leave the plastic flowers or fresh ones on the grave. They take it as soon as you put it there. Vases and all.”
- Andrea Laurenson; “They are so barbaric,someone even stole my son’s little angel from his stone, they don’t have respect for anyone.”
- Thelma Grobler: ” Onopgevoed en geen respek vir die lewendige of die dode”
- Amanda Stander: “I don’t visit cemeteries because my loved ones aren’t there. Their bones are there. Their spirits are in heaven. But for those who do go to be close to their loved ones earthly remains I believe the vandalism is upsetting”
- Natalie Bornman: “At last.”
- James Michael Mcculloch: “How do they intend enforcing this? Nice gesture, just follow through with your commitments.”
- Gen Hanekom: “Again, too little, too late.”
- Estelle Koekemoer: “Hulle dreig al jare lank om iets te doen maar net mooi niks word gedoen nie.”
- Yvonne Groenewald: “About time too, no respect, not even for the dead.”
- Gerald Smit: “Die persone wat dit doen het geen respek vir ander mense se goed nie. Hulle het nie eens self respek nie.”
- Roni Clark: “It’s disgusting,the lack of care and respect.”
