Why were 11 tombstones stolen from a Muslim cemetery?

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Eleven Tombstones Stolen from Mukim Tebrau Muslim Cemetery for Resale

Eleven tombstones were stolen from the Mukim Tebrau Muslim Cemetery in Taman Istimewa, Pandan, with the motive believed to be the resale of the markers. The incident, which marks the first such occurrence since the cemetery's opening in the early 1990s, highlights vulnerabilities in the security of public burial grounds. The stolen headstones included valuable river stone sets, estimated to cost over RM450 each, as well as white headstone sets valued at RM350.
River Stone and White Headstones Targeted for Value

The majority of the grave markers that were stolen were river stone headstones, typically sold in sets of nine and valued at more than RM450 per set. Additionally, white headstone sets, priced at RM350 per set, were also taken. These items are believed to have been targeted due to their market value, suggesting a motive of theft for resale rather than desecration.
Cemetery's Open Access Facilitated the Theft

The Mukim Tebrau Muslim Cemetery is situated on waqf (public) land, and it remains unlocked at the request of the public to allow easier access for next-of-kin visiting graves. This open-access policy, while accommodating to visitors, unfortunately leaves the cemetery vulnerable to intrusions, particularly during nighttime hours when no funerals are taking place. The lack of overnight security personnel further exacerbates this vulnerability.
Suspected Nighttime Vandalism and Theft

It is suspected that the vandalism and theft occurred during the night, a period when the cemetery is typically unoccupied and without any ongoing funeral activities. This timing would have provided the perpetrators with an opportunity to carry out the act undetected. The incident came to light when visitors arriving on Aidilfitri morning discovered the missing tombstones.
Police Awaiting Formal Reports for Investigation

As of the reporting, the South Johor Baru district police have not received any formal reports concerning the vandalism and theft at the cemetery. Police are urging the public, particularly the relatives of those buried at the site, to lodge official reports to enable a thorough investigation into the matter.

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Why were 11 tombstones stolen from a Muslim cemetery?

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