Columbarium vandalised and cremated ashes scattered at Belgian cemetery
Reported on 7 August 2026, the columbarium at Sy Cemetery in Ferrières was vandalised, with several niches damaged and some urns opened, causing cremated remains to be scattered inside and around the cemetery. The incident caused significant distress in the community; affected families were notified and psychological support was arranged. The municipal authorities announced that a criminal complaint would be filed.
Several niches in the columbarium, where remains are held, at Sy Cemetery in Ferrières were vandalised and urns were opened with remains scattered both within the cemetery and in surrounding areas. The incident was described by the municipal spokesperson responsible for religious affairs as an "abject crime."
The Mayor of Ferrières announced that a complaint would be filed with the authorities. The incident caused significant disturbance to the community and families affected. According to the report, families were informed of what had happened, and psychological assistance was made available following the discovery.
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