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UK Police Investigate Islamophobic Hate Crime After Desecration of 85 Graves in Watford
Hertfordshire Police launch investigation into Islamophobic hate crime after 85 graves, including those of babies and children, were desecrated at Carpenders Park Lawn Cemetery.
ND
by News Desk
2025-04-16
UK Police Investigate Islamophobic Hate Crime After Desecration of 85 Graves in Watford

Hertfordshire Police have launched an investigation into the desecration of 85 graves at Carpenders Park Lawn Cemetery in Watford, which is being treated as an Islamophobic hate crime. The damage, which includes the desecration of graves of babies and young children, was discovered on Tuesday by a grieving family visiting the site, sparking profound shock and distress within the local Muslim community.

The graves, which are part of the Muslim section of the cemetery, were subjected to what authorities described as “unspeakable acts of disrespect.” Local funeral service Wadi Funeralcare, which serves many Muslim families in the area, expressed deep concern, calling the act “heartbreaking.”

Hertfordshire Police confirmed that extra patrols would be carried out in the area, and officials have urged anyone with information to come forward. Inspector Will Rogers-Overy reassured the public that officers were working closely with community leaders to support the families impacted by the crime.

“We are deeply shocked by this appalling act. In the coming days, we will engage further with the Muslim community, who will have been particularly impacted by this horrendous crime,” he stated.

The cemetery, while located in Watford, is owned and managed by Brent Council. Council leader Muhammed Butt condemned the act, calling it a potential Islamophobic hate crime, and promised that efforts would be made to restore the cemetery after the police investigation is complete.

"It looks as though Muslim graves have been targeted in what appears to be an Islamophobic hate crime," Butt said. "Our thoughts are with the families of those whose graves were desecrated."

The tragic incident has prompted widespread outrage, with local political figures speaking out against the vandalism. Abbas Merali, a Conservative councillor, called the act “barbaric,” adding that it had caused “immense anguish to grieving families and profound hurt across our community.”

The Brent Council has committed to reinstating the damaged name plaques and restoring the cemetery to a peaceful and respectful place of remembrance for families once the investigation is complete.

 
Tagged:

islamophobia

HateCrime

Watford

GraveDesecration
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