The Drakenstein Municipality has condemned an appalling act of vandalism committed by unknown parties at the Wellington Cemetery’s Wall of Remembrance.

The Municipality says that during the incident, serious damage was inflicted upon 62 of the 70 occupied niches in the wall, and the cremated remains were removed.

The marble stones covering the niches, purchased by the families, were also shattered into pieces, and many were completely defaced.

Municipality spokesperson Riana Geldenhuys says they are busy assessing the damage and engaging with affected families to offer support.

She says officials were able to recover 36 of the niches’ cremated remains at the site.

“This is now in safekeeping at a municipal facility. The remainder of the cremated remains could however not be located.”

The Executive Mayor of Drakenstein Municipality, Stephen Korabie, has condemned the disgraceful act.

“These actions show a shocking disrespect for our community and its values. To be able to do that to the final resting place of someone’s loved one fills me with disdain.”

A case has been opened with the South African Police Service, and Korabie says they will cooperate fully to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

“As the Municipality continues to engage with the affected families, we will embark on an extensive public participation process to discuss possible courses of action for the future of the Wall of Remembrance to ensure a dignified and lasting solution.”

The Wall of Remembrance at the Wellington Cemetery has altogether 360 niches.