Police will hold an information caravan in Bundoora today as part of the ongoing investigation into an incident at a Bundoora cemetery last year where a crypt was desecrated.
Investigators are also releasing information in relation to a vehicle they believe may have been used by the offenders.
It’s believed at least two men broke into the Preston General Cemetery on Plenty Road shortly before 5am on 30 July.
They then accessed a large combined commercial mausoleum by damaging an external window.
While inside the mausoleum, they have removed a casket and accessed the body of a woman inside.
Investigators believe that a diamond ring of significant value may have been removed from the body.
Police had previously consulted with the nominated liaison person to the deceased’s family in order to try and determine what items may have been damaged or potentially stolen from the crypt, and those enquiries remain ongoing.
There was no damage to any other crypts within the mausoleum.
Detectives are treating the incident as targeted and believe theft may not be the only motive for the crime.
Last December police released details of two men they are looking to identify as part of their investigation.
The pair were wearing gas masks, hooded jumpers and dark clothing at the time of the incident, and it’s believed one of the men had a larger build and one had a smaller build.
Following this appeal police believe they have identified a vehicle used by the men during this incident.
A dark coloured Mini Cooper was reportedly seen in the area around 3.30am and 5am on the morning of the incident.
Detectives are releasing an image of a vehicle similar to that described and are keen to speak to anyone with information about that car, including it’s current whereabouts.
Police are also re-releasing images of the men they are looking to identify.
The information caravan will be situated at the Preston Cemetery on Plenty Road, Bundoora between 9.30am and 2.30pm on Monday, 22 January.
Police encourage anyone who may have information about this incident to come and speak to them at the caravan.
Investigators are also keen to speak to anyone who may have information about the incident, who was responsible and what the potential motive was.
Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or log onto www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
