Western Australia police are investigating an incident in which an appalling act of vandalism took place at the State War Memorial in Kings Park, Western Australia.
Police say the incident occurred between the hours of 10pm on Wednesday 25 May and 5 am on Thursday 26 May 2022.
According to reports a group of people had been at the memorial when a man entered the water. After he emerged from the water the Eternal Flame had been extinguished.
This is not the first time this type of disrespectful act of vandalism has occurred at the Kings Park Memorial.
In August 2020 vandals extinguished the eternal flame and set fire to a nearby bin. The incident coincided with the 75th anniversary of the end of World War 2.
John McCourt, CEO of the RSL (WA) told 6PR in 2020,
“Why would anyone think about desecrating a memorial or any other edifice that pays respect for those that not only served but died.”
Mr McCourt said, “They have not only vandalized the memorial, they have vandalized the memory and the integrity of the families of all those people who have died.”
WA Police have released a photo of a man they believe may be able to assist them in current ongoing investigations, and hope that the public can help in identifying him.
Western Australia Police urge anyone that may be able to assist to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 0000 or make an online report at www.crimestopperswa.com.au
