The Westbank Cemetery in West Kelowna is missing more than 50 name plaques after thieves broke into the cemetery last Saturday night.

According to the city, the thieve(s) cut the lock off the cemetery gate and stole bronze markers from 53 cemetery plots.

Upon hearing the news, City staff began contacting the families affected by the crime to tell them what had occurred. Although the families affected will have to pay for replacing their plaques, the City is waving its $300 installation fee. The city is also looking at reduced price options from suppliers.

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In addition to waiving the installation fee, the city is also encouraging families to consider plaque options that are less attractive to thieves, such as granite.

A few of those affected by the theft have posted on social media, voicing their displeasure.

To ensure this never happens again, the city has increased its park security patrol in the area and a security agent will now walk the grounds of the cemetery each evening. The city is also investing in security cameras for the cemetery.

Neighboring jurisdictions were advised by the city to keep an eye of out for cemetery theft as soon as they heard about the incident.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact the West Kelowna RCMP at 250-768-2880.

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