Thefts and arson reported in Schwerin and Steinfurt

Multiple incidents of theft and arson have been reported in Germany. In Schwerin, thieves targeted a war cemetery at the Old Cemetery, stealing 28 brass memorial plaques from granite pedestals within a few days. The estimated total value of the stolen items is approximately 84,000 euros. In response, city officials are removing and storing 202 remaining metal plaques and are investigating alternative materials that are less attractive to thieves.

In Steinfurt, police reported several thefts from the Königsallee cemetery, including grave vases, lights, a bronze cross, a Madonna figure, and a brass flower. Additionally, in Hopsten, two straw bale storage sites were destroyed by arson, resulting in the loss of approximately 600 straw bales and an estimated 15,000 euros in damages.