Unknown perpetrators stole a statue of St Martin from a monument in front of the monastery church in Aldekerk, Germany. The incident caused significant shock among local residents.
The theft occurred during the night of 16-17 January 2025. The figure, which had been firmly mounted on a pedestal, was forcibly removed, with evidence suggesting it was cut off at the feet using tools. Parts of the monument, including the bishop’s mitre and the figure of a seated beggar, remained in place. The statue depicted St Martin, a widely venerated Christian saint, and held particular symbolic and cultural significance for the local community. Residents described the act as deeply distressing, noting the strong attachment to the monument.