The New South Wales Police Minister, Yasmin Catley, has condemned a shocking act of vandalism at the NSW Police Wall of Remembrance in Sydney’s Domain.
The monument, which honors police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, was defaced with the words “evil” and “dogs” early Saturday morning.
A Swift Investigation and Arrest
Following a swift investigation, a 45-year-old man was arrested at Glebe Light Rail Station on Monday and taken to Day Street Police Station, where he is expected to be charged.
The Police Minister described the vandalism as a “vile attack” on a “sacred site” for police officers and their families.
A Message to Vandalism Perpetrators
Ms. Catley had a stern warning for anyone who commits such acts: “If you’re out there being a moron, committing these sorts of attacks, then be careful, because you will end up in jail, just like the person who did this.”
She emphasized that police take these crimes very seriously and will leave no stone unturned to catch the perpetrators.
The Significance of the NSW Police Wall of Remembrance
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb also spoke about the importance of the wall, saying that seeing it damaged is “like sacrilege to police officers.”
The wall is a place where officers and their loved ones come to remember and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Investigation and Repairs
Specialist police forensically examined the memorial site, which was declared a crime scene after the damage was noticed.
Police are working with Sydney City Council to repair the wall, which may require the help of a stonemason and could take some time.
A Message from the Police Commissioner
Commissioner Webb’s thoughts are with the families of the officers whose names appear on the wall.
She said, “Every single day that police officers serve, they go to work not knowing if they will come home, and unfortunately, the names of those officers behind me are those officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
The police are committed to protecting and honoring the memories of their fallen colleagues.