Overview

• Police and the umbrella group for Islamic communities said more than 40 graves were damaged at the Friedhof am Hallo in northern Essen.
• Overturned tombstone slabs and destroyed signs, lanterns and plantings were documented at the site.
• The Essen police’s State Protection unit opened an investigation with no suspects identified and the motive unresolved.
• A visitor discovered the damage and alerted officers on Friday.
• The Kommission Islam und Moscheen in Essen condemned the act and urged measures including better lighting, routine patrols and night security at religious cemeteries, noting the burial field’s Mecca-oriented layout.