The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality says it is strengthening efforts to protect cemeteries across the Metro following a recent breakthrough arrest in Kariega linked to tombstone theft and vandalism.
The arrest, made through cooperation between law enforcement agencies, municipal officials and local industry stakeholders, marks an important step in ongoing efforts to address cemetery-related crime in Nelson Mandela Bay.
Municipal officials say the collaborative approach has already started strengthening investigations, with tombstone manufacturers and businesses within the memorial sector now working more closely with authorities to report suspicious activity linked to the recycling, polishing and resale of cemetery materials.
The Municipality says protecting cemeteries and preserving the dignity of loved ones’ final resting places remains a priority, with further security interventions and long-term solutions currently being explored across the Metro.
Municipality Confirms Ongoing Investigations
According to the Municipality, incidents involving theft, vandalism and damage to tombstones have increased over the past two years across several municipal cemeteries.
All reported cases have reportedly been escalated to the Municipality’s Internal Investigating Unit within the Safety and Security Directorate, as well as the South African Police Service, with investigations continuing.
The recent arrest in Kariega followed cooperation between authorities and local tombstone manufacturers, who helped identify suspicious activity linked to altered and recycled cemetery materials.
Executive Mayor Councillor Babalwa Lobishe acknowledged the emotional impact these incidents have had on families and communities.
“These criminal acts are deeply painful and unacceptable. We fully understand the anger and hurt experienced by affected families and communities,” said Lobishe.
She added that the Municipality remains committed to improving cemetery security and strengthening partnerships with law enforcement agencies and community structures.
Security Plans Being Explored
The Municipality says consultations are currently underway with the Budget and Treasury Directorate to explore sustainable funding options for additional security interventions across cemeteries in Nelson Mandela Bay.
Potential measures being considered include:
- Enhanced cemetery patrols
- Improved surveillance and monitoring systems
- Access control measures
- Coordinated law enforcement operations
- Stronger partnerships with SAPS and community safety groups
Current municipal assessments estimate that approximately R20 million per financial year would be required to provide comprehensive security coverage across all 11 active cemeteries in the Metro.
The Municipality confirmed that an initial R700,000 has already been identified through internal savings measures to begin addressing some of the challenges, although officials noted that broader long-term investment will still be needed.
Community Encouraged to Assist
Residents, funeral industry stakeholders, community organisations and businesses operating within the memorial sector are being encouraged to continue working closely with authorities by reporting suspicious activity linked to cemetery vandalism and tombstone theft.
The Municipality also warned that the theft, vandalism and unlawful possession of tombstones or cemetery materials remain criminal offences and may lead to prosecution.
Officials say the Municipality remains committed to restoring damaged infrastructure where possible and ensuring cemeteries across Nelson Mandela Bay continue to be treated with dignity, care and respect.
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