DURBAN – THE South African Hindu Maha Sabha has offered a reward for anyone with information regarding the numerous break-ins at temples.
SA Hindu Maha Sabha said it was offering a reward of R10 000 to anyone who may provide information that could lead to the recovery of the stolen goods.
The organisation called on all Durban temples and those in surrounding areas to ensure that they tighten up their security as it is concerned about the ongoing burglaries.
According to the organisers, there have been more than six temples that have reported burglaries in the past few weeks.
These crimes have resulted in anger among the Hindu communities as most labelled them as disrespectful to the religion.
“Princess murthis and artefacts have been stolen and sacred spaces violated. Sadly, crime permeates all facets of life in South Africa and places of worship are not immune. Criminals are taking advantage of the existing Covid-19 lockdown regulations,” said the organisation in a public notice that was issued at the weekend.
The organisation further appealed to temple management committees to take all reasonable safety measures and urged the committee to upgrade temple security if needed.
“We also request the South African Police Service to set up a special investigation unit to understand the modus operandi of the thieves and especially the market for artefacts stolen from the temples.”
The organisation also urged scrap dealers who bought the Sacred Hindu relics to return them. These would then be restored and returned to their original temples.
THE MERCURY