‘A Particularly Low Act’: Arrest Made Following Heartless Theft of War Veteran Plaques in Invercargill
By Lions Roar News South Island Desk
INVERCARGILL, NEW ZEALAND (January 7, 2026) — Police have apprehended a 44-year-old man in connection with the theft of several brass plaques from the St John’s Cemetery in Waikiwi, Invercargill. The theft, which targeted the final resting places of World War I and World War II veterans, has been condemned by authorities as a “particularly low act.”
📍 The Crime and Recovery
The investigation began after nine plaques were reported missing from the cemetery between October 28 and November 22.
- The Targets: Out of the nine plaques stolen, four belonged to returned service personnel. This includes the graves of men who served in the New Zealand forces during both World Wars.
- Significant History: According to the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, St John’s Cemetery holds the official war graves of Rifleman James Charles Cunningham and Sergeant Leonard Carswell Hanan, both of whom served in the First World War.
- The Recovery: Senior Constable Craig Colyer confirmed that all nine plaques have been located. However, the news is bittersweet, as several of the historic brass markers were found damaged “beyond repair.”
⚖️ Charges and Court Appearance
The 44-year-old accused, who has not yet been named, faces charges of theft.
- Court Date: The man is scheduled to appear in the Invercargill District Court on Monday, January 13, 2026.
- Police Statement: “Theft at any time is appalling, but targeting a cemetery is a particularly low act,” said Senior Constable Colyer. He noted that while the plaques cannot all be restored, the arrest hopefully brings some comfort to the grieving families.
🛡️ Community Outrage
The Invercargill City Council and local veteran groups have expressed their disappointment over the desecration of the site. Targeting the graves of those who served the country has sparked a wave of anger across the Southland community.
Police have thanked the public for their vital assistance in identifying the suspect and locating the stolen items.
