Residents across the City of Rockingham are being encouraged to report any suspicious activity to police after a number of plaques were stolen from memorial benches.
Thieves recently targeted a number of memorial seats between Safety Bay Road and Shelton Street in Waikiki, with a City of Rockingham audit revealing all 10 plaques in the area were stolen from the benches.
Further audits in other areas across the City are also being carried out to determine how widespread the issue has become.
City of Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels condemned the thefts and encouraged residents to report any suspicious behaviour to Police.
“Local families install these plaques to honour the memory of loved ones who have passed away and it’s disgraceful that thieves would steal them simply to make a profit,” Mayor Sammels said.
“While the theft of plaques is not uncommon, the escalation in the frequency and number of thefts from memorial benches across the City has recently reached new levels and is of concern.
“I encourage all residents and metal recycling yards to be vigilant and report any stolen plaques to the relevant authorities.”
To combat this rise in thefts, the City is investigating other methods of plaque installation that make them harder to steal.
Anybody who witnesses any suspicious activity surrounding memorial benches is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Alternatively, callers can contact the Police incident line on 131 444 and provide their details.
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