Merafong City Condemns Vandalism at Khutsong South Cemetery and Implements Security Measures

Karen Scheepers
6 hours ago
2 min read

The Merafong City Local Municipality has issued an official response following a serious act of vandalism at the Khutsong South Cemetery on Sunday, 2 November 2025. The incident resulted in extensive damage to more than 200 headstones, causing widespread distress among residents and affected families. The Municipality expressed deep regret over the event and outlined steps being taken to prevent future occurrences.

Details of the Incident:

According to the municipality’s statement, a total of 206 headstones were found toppled and broken, primarily in the section containing graves from 2009 and 2010. The incident was reported to the Municipality’s Parks and Cemeteries Unit by a community member, after which officials were dispatched to the site to assess and document the damage.

A formal case of vandalism was subsequently opened at the Khutsong South Police Station under case number 14/11/2025. Municipal officials recorded affected grave numbers and captured photographic evidence for record-keeping and further investigation.

Municipal Response and Security Actions:

The Merafong City Local Municipality has strongly condemned the act, describing it as a serious offense that has caused both emotional distress and damage to public property. The Municipality urged residents to come forward with any information that could assist in identifying those responsible, encouraging cooperation with either the South African Police Service (SAPS) or the Municipality’s Security Section.

To prevent similar incidents in the future, the Municipality announced several enhanced security measures, including:

Improved lighting throughout the cemetery.
Repair of damaged fencing to strengthen perimeter protection.
Increased patrols and security presence within the cemetery grounds.

These measures are aimed at ensuring the continued protection of community cemeteries and safeguarding them against further acts of vandalism.

Way Forward:

The Municipality reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining and protecting cemeteries with the dignity and respect they deserve. In the official statement, the Municipal Manager, Mr. Dumisani D. Mabuza, emphasized that preserving these spaces is not only an administrative responsibility but also a moral obligation to the families who have entrusted their loved ones to rest there.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and assist in upholding the sanctity of communal resting places.

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