Clanwilliam Tourism says they are in the process of replacing the stolen brass nameplate
CAPE TOWN - Doubtful that the brass nameplate at the desecrated gravesite of Dr C Louis Leipoldt will ever be recovered, Clanwilliam Tourism said they are in the process of replacing it.
The South African doctor, poet and dramatist’s grave was defaced last week, leaving a gaping hole in the gravestone where the nameplate was erected.
Outgoing chairperson of Clanwilliam Tourism, Rika Potgieter, said the plate was the original one, placed in 1947.
In a Facebook post by Clanwilliam Toerisme, the organisation said they planned to report the matter to SAPS, however they had not done so by Sunday.
“We have not reported it to SAPS as we don’t think it will ever be retrieved.
“We as the tourism association are upset at the disregard for heritage and the disrespect shown by this action.
“The committee is in the process of replacing the nameplate. This will take some time,” said Potgieter.
The Facebook post read that the brass plate was “sonder toestemming verwyder” (taken without permission).
Provincial department of Cultural Affairs and Sport spokesperson, Stacy McLean, said Heritage Western Cape (HWC) was made aware of the incident in Pakhuis Pass and suggested that security measures should be considered by CapeNature, the owners of the reserve at which the gravesite is situated.
“The grave is protected as a grave site in terms of the National Heritage Resources Act. It is unfortunate that the brass plate associated with the grave site has been stolen.
“The owners may need to review the security measures on site, which is freely accessible.
“The rock art still visible on the rock face above the grave is at risk of being vandalised,” said McLean.
Enquiries to CapeNature were not answered by deadline on Sunday.
If you have any information relating to the incident you can report it anonymously to CrimeStop on 08600 10111.
Cape Times