England: Police investigate vandalism of Muslim children’s graves in Watford

Police are investigating the vandalism of 85 graves in the Muslim section of Carpenders Park Lawn Cemetery in Watford (a town northwest of Central London), many of which are believed to be the resting places of babies and young children, the BBC reported. Hertfordshire Police confirmed they are conducting extra patrols and working with local community leaders to support affected families.

Wadi Funeralcare, which manages some of the burials, described the incident as a “distressing discovery” and expressed heartbreak over the desecration. Brent Council, which owns the cemetery, condemned the act, with its leader, Muhammed Butt, calling it a possible Islamophobic hate crime.

Conservative councillor Abbas Merali called the incident a “barbaric act” that has caused widespread pain. Damage included broken plaques, headstones, and disturbed topsoil. Authorities have appealed for witnesses and pledged to restore the site once investigations conclude.