By Molly Magennis
Police are appealing for public assistance after human remains were taken from two gravesites during two incidents over the past week.
The first incident occurred at the Geelong Road cemetery between 7.30pm on Thursday, January 27, and 6.15am on Friday, January 28. No other graves were disturbed.
The second incident occurred between 6pm on Monday, January 31, and 10am on Tuesday, February 1.
Police said another grave was disturbed during the second incident, but no human remains were taken.
Footscray Crime Investigation Unit Detective Acting Inspector Ben Jarman said police became aware of the incident after a passerby contacted them.
He said the two incidents occurred fairly close to each other towards the back of the cemetery where the mausoleums are located.
Substantial tools would have had to have been used to break into the mausoleums, Detective Acting Inspector Jarman said.
“It’s difficult to say at this stage of the investigation what tools they used, there would have had to have been some tools used and would have been some sort of substantial tool,” he said.
While no tools were left at the scene, he said some other evidence had been.
When questioned as to whether the incidents may be linked to possible devil worshipping practices, Detective Acting Inspector Jarman said all avenues of investigation are open.
“Motivation is very difficult in this case, because it’s such an uncommon crime to be committed. Until we catch up with the offender and find out a motive, it’s very difficult to say what the motive is,” he said.
Police will continue to work with Maribyrnong council and the cemeteries trust to increase security in the area.
Maribyrnong mayor Anthony Tran said council was appalled at the act of vandalism at the cemetery.
“It is abhorrent to me that anyone would think it okay to interfere with the resting place of any member of our community,” he said.
“We are deeply sorry for the distress this has caused for the affected families. Police are investigating and we are providing support and assistance as required.”
Anyone with information, dashcam or CCTV footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or file a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
