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Graves desecrated: Investigations into vandalism in Lower Austria!
Grave desecrations in Vienna and Lower Austria: Over 60 cases since 2024, investigations are ongoing. Details of suspected vandalism.
Graves desecrated: Investigations into vandalism in Lower Austria!
The last few weeks have caused horror in Lower Austria and Vienna. Graves were forcibly opened in several cemeteries, including two in Lower Austria. According to 5min.at, there were a total of 21 cases: 13 in Weidling (Klosterneuburg municipality) and 8 in Wagram (Tulln district). Coffins were broken open or cut open - this is not only an attack on the deceased, but also on the feelings of their relatives.
The incidents are not happening for the first time. In Vienna there have already been 60 cases of grave desecration since the summer of 2024, which also horrify many people. It is particularly tragic that among the desecrated graves there are also those of Roma, Sinti and Holocaust survivors. It turns out that vandalism in this form is not an isolated phenomenon and must be prosecuted. The State Criminal Police Office has now taken over the investigation into the current cases. However, there is currently no evidence of the perpetrator.
A look at grave desecrations
Grave desecration, as described here, is much more than just a terrible act against the dead; it is also a violation of the sense of piety of the bereaved. According to Wikipedia, this deliberate damage or destruction of graves constitutes a criminal offense that can be prosecuted in Austria under Section 190 of the Criminal Code. The prevailing opinion is that this violates both the postmortem personal rights of the deceased and the feelings of the relatives. Such acts not only represent a massive loss of trust in the community, but also represent a serious moral violation.
The discussion about grave desecration is a highly sensitive topic in many countries. While there is debate in Germany about the exact definitions of the offenses, the laws in Austria are clear: Any unauthorized intervention in a grave can be viewed as an administrative offense according to the cemetery regulations. In some cases, this could even amount to theft if items are removed from graves.
Recent incidents in Lower Austria and Vienna show that these shocking acts continue to pose a serious challenge to society. The investigation is in full swing - and the hope remains that the perpetrators can soon be brought to justice. Such actions must not go without consequences because they violate the feeling of security and respect that every person deserves - even after their death.
For further information on the current investigation, you can read the article from ORF Niederösterreich.