The community is in uproar after discovering vandalised tombstones at the Zenzele Cemetery.
The Randfontein Herald spoke to resident Tebogo Tamapo who has a loved one buried at the cemetery and whose tombstone was damaged.
“I am utterly heartbroken and disappointed. We feel disrespected and this has cost us another season of grief. Now, it is our responsibility to raise money to fix the tombstone,” Tamapo said.
Photos and videos of the situation have been circulating on social media, showcasing the severity of the vandalism.
“Someone is doing this to get a security tender. Even if I was a delinquent, I don’t think I could find it in me to do this,” one comment read.
“They did this to my grandma’s grave.”
“The guts to do this to someone’s resting place. I hope they are ready for the repercussions of disturbing a resting place.”
“Yoh, my heart is so broken seeing this. Why?” another one read.
Rand West City Local Municipality has since commented on the matter, stating they full-heartedly condemn acts of vandalism.
“These shocking incidents involve the desecration of graves and tombstones, which not only damages property but wounds the community’s cultural and religious sentiments,” Executive Mayor William Matsheke stated.
Matsheke added the municipality will be taking action to address the matter.
That said, Matsheke further claimed that the municipality will be increasing security management, installing high mast lights, deploying relevant law enforcement, enhancing fencing and encouraging residents to report any suspicious activity.
