Vandals have destroyed headstones in two Jewish Cemeteries in Greater Manchester.
At around 3.45pm on Wednesday 18 May 2016 police were called the Blackley Jewish Cemetery on Rochdale Road in Charlestown to reports of damage to a number of graves.
Officers attended and found 14 head stones had been knocked over and smashed.
Later that day, shortly after 6.15pm, police were called to reports of damage to graves in the Failsworth Jewish Cemetery on Cemetery Road in Failsworth, Oldham.
On inspection, two head stones were discovered to have been purposely knocked over and damaged.
Police are unable to confirm if these incidents are linked, however this has not yet been ruled out and will be investigated thoroughly.
Police are now appealing for witnesses or for anyone who has any information to get in contact.
Chief Superintendent Wasim Chaudhry from GMP’s North Manchester Division said “This is a sickening act of criminal damage which we are taking very seriously.
“I believe this was a deliberate and targeted attack and there is no place for such abhorrent behaviour in our communities.
“All decent members of the public recognise that a cemetery is supposed to be a resting place for people who have passed away; a place of sanctity and dignity where families can come and pay their respects.
“So to have those graves desecrated in such a disgusting and disrespectful way will no doubt cause immeasurable anguish to the families and loved ones affected.
“I cannot begin to get into the mind of someone who would commit such an atrocity. I know this will cause a lot of anxiety and distress in the local community and we as police officers and my colleagues at Manchester City Council share that distress.
“We will do everything we can to find out who is responsible and bring the full force of the law down on them.
“This has been recorded as a hate crime because of the clear racial motivation and, should we find those who committed this cowardly act, which will allow the courts to impose even harsher punishments.
“We have put in place extra patrols in the area which I hope will act as a visible deterrent and provide some additional reassurance for any concerned residents, we are also working closely with our partner agencies to investigate the matter.
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“I am convinced, that with the help of the local community we will identify those responsible.”
“Ultimately the people of Great Manchester need to stand together and say no to hatred of this kind which seeks to divide and cause distress within our communities”
“Someone, will know who is responsible and I would urge those people to do the right thing, do the decent thing.”
“Think how you would feel if it was the grave of your loved one which was damaged. I am sure you would want justice so please, think of those are suffering and speak to us, in confidence if needed.”
Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 3521, 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
