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.
For that reason, 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.
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.
“This behaviour by unscrupulous individuals leaves grieving families with immeasurable emotional and financial stress.
“Therefore, as the municipality, we strongly condemn these criminal acts and caution the culprits that they will not be tolerated,” said spokesman for the metro Themba Gadebe.
Perpetrators of these crimes will be subject to pay either a fine of up to R2 000 or serve six months in jail.
Meanwhile, the affected families will be within their rights, as guided by the approved metro cemetery by-laws, to claim for repair expenses from the identified vandals.
Members of the community are urged to keep an eye out for vandals and to report any suspicious activity to Sanelisiwe Mongoai on 011 999-4090 or email to Sanelisiwe.Mongoai@ekurhuleni.gov.za or alternatively report the criminal activities directly to the police.
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