Police are searching for Jacob Rapana, 32, who is wanted on warrants over thefts at a Cheltenham cemetery. The case involves up to 160 brass memorial plaques.
Victoria Police say the plaques were stolen from a cemetery on Charman Road between 1 and 10 October.
On Friday, 30 October, investigators released Rapana’s photograph and appealed for information about his whereabouts.
Police Describe Jacob Rapana
Police describe Rapana as approximately 165cm tall, with a skinny build and long black hair. They say he has a single brown eye and is of Pacific Islander or Māori appearance.
Police also believe he may be sleeping rough.
Police urge anyone who recognises Rapana or knows where he may be staying to contact them.
Up to 160 Cheltenham Cemetery Plaques Stolen
Moorabbin Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the reported thefts of memorial plaques from graves.
In an earlier statement on 15 October, police reported the theft of approximately 150 plaques. They valued each plaque at between $600 and $2,500.
At the time, police believed the thefts had occurred between 8 September and 8 October.
However, the latest police statement puts the figure at up to 160 plaques. It also lists a different theft period, from 1 to 10 October.
Police have not explained the changes in the number of plaques or the reported dates.
The Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust previously said it was inspecting the cemetery to identify affected memorials. It also said it was contacting families where possible.
Police Appeal for Information
Anyone with information about Rapana’s whereabouts can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Alternatively, people can report information confidentially through Crime Stoppers Victoria.
Police are continuing their investigation into the Cheltenham cemetery plaque thefts.
Victoria Police have published the full appeal, including Rapana’s photograph, on their website.
