News

Security increased in Muslim grave vandalism cemetery

5th January 2010

1235

Race hate crimes still being investigated, say police

NEW security measures are being installed in a Manchester cemetery following a spate of attacks on Muslim graves.

CCTV and additional lighting have been installed at Southern Cemetery in light of a number of recent race hate attacks on Muslim headstones in the past months.

In September 25 headstones were vandalised, whilst in November police were called out twice when over 40 were desecrated.

Detectives believe the attacks are racially motivated and are still investigating the incidents.

The cemetery has stepped up patrols and police have deployed plain clothes officers in a bid to catch the offenders.

Inspector Steve Hubbard from the Chorlton Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “I hope the extra lighting and CCTV will stop these incidents from happening again. We will not tolerate hate crime incidents and we are doing everything that we can to catch these mindless criminals.

“Criminal damage in Southern Cemetery has been identified as a local priority and aside from installing extra security methods, your neighbourhood officers will continue to patrol the area to deter vandals. Undercover police work is also taking place to identify those responsible.”

Councillor Mike Amesbury, Manchester city council’s executive member with responsibility for cemeteries, said: “These measures show just how seriously both Manchester City Council and the police have taken these disgusting attacks. I would urge anyone who has any information to come forward to ensure these vandals are brought to justice.”

The police and Manchester City Council said they will continue to liaise with the Muslim community to “build up intelligence and catch whoever is responsible.”