A man has been charged with theft after nine veteran war plaques were taken from St John Cemetery in Invercargill between late October and late November.
Invercargill Police confirmed a 44-year-old man is facing charges following the removal of memorial plaques, four of which were taken from the graves of Returned Service personnel who served in World War I and World War II.
Senior Constable Craig Colyer said all nine plaques have now been recovered, although some were too badly damaged to be repaired.
“While we are pleased the plaques have been located, it is disappointing that not all could be restored to their original condition,” he said.
“Theft at any time is appalling, but targeting a cemetery is a particularly low act.
“We hope this arrest brings some comfort to the affected families, and we want to thank the public for their assistance with the investigation.”
The man is due to appear in the Invercargill District Court on 13 January.