 | Drakenstein Municipality condemns vandalism at Wellington Wall of Remembrance
22 July 2025 | Press Releases |
21 July 2025
It is with deep concern and great disappointment that Drakenstein Municipality has learnt of an appalling act of vandalism committed by unknown parties at the Wellington Cemetery’s Wall of Remembrance.
During the incident, serious damage has been 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 aggrieved families were shattered into pieces and many were completely defaced.
While the Municipality takes reparative action, which includes assessing the damage and engaging with affected families to offer support and reassurance, 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.
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"We strongly condemn the disgraceful act of vandalism committed at the Wall of Remembrance. 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,” said Councillor Stephen Korabie, Executive Mayor of Drakenstein Municipality.
A case has been opened with the South African Police Service, and the Municipality 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,” says Councillor Korabie.
The Wall of Remembrance at the Wellington Cemetery has altogether 360 niches.
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Issued by: Communication and Marketing, Drakenstein Municipality
