As All Saints' Day nears, thefts at cemeteries and churches have sparked concern, with victims like Philippe replacing stolen memorials with makeshift markers.
Rise in cemetery thefts sparks concern
As All Saints' Day approaches, authorities and residents are expressing concern over a rise in thefts at cemeteries and churches. The gendarmerie has called for increased vigilance in these places of remembrance, where incidents have been reported. Personal loss fuels a unique response
In Marseille, Philippe recently became a victim of such thefts at the location where his deceased daughter is buried. He reported that thieves stole the marble plaque fixed on the compartment where his daughter's ashes rest. To combat this, Philippe decided to replace the plaque with a plain cardboard box marked with visible tape, specifying the name, first name, and birth and death status of his daughter. Skepticism about cemetery staff involvement
Joseph, who cleans his parents' graves at the Saint-Pierre cemetery, claims there is complicity among cemetery staff. He questions how thieves manage to carry away heavy objects like marble plaques, which weigh at least 5 kg, through the doors. He suggests that the thefts are not going unnoticed and that people are exploiting such opportunities for profit. Emotional impact of the thefts
A person interviewed by Lionel Maillet lamented that "people are making money out of anything now," adding that these acts affect the memory of ancestors and are unacceptable. A woman expressed that the thefts go beyond stealing material objects, affecting the hearts of parents and families deeply. Churches also targeted for valuables
The issue extends beyond cemeteries, with churches also being targeted. In Aubagne, Henri, a retired person who regularly attends church, reported that thieves are primarily interested in objects made of precious metals, such as chalices, gold, and silver pieces. He expressed disillusionment, stating that "we no longer respect anything."
