WWII Cemetery ‘robbed’

Kohima, July 20 (MExN): Setting a bad tone of image for Nagaland, 17 bronze plates have been stolen from the 2nd World War Cemetery in Kohima in the month of March and July this year. Tools used for removing the plates have also been recovered. They were displayed to media persons during the official inspection made by Lhouvizosier Mezhiir Sekhose, manager and Salew Pfotte, regional manager, (NE- India) of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

Sources said 5 bronze plates were stolen in the month of March and another 12 on July 5 this year. An FIR has already been lodged with the Kohima Police station.  In a related matter, empty bottles of beer and rum, adhesive  tubes, erasers and remnants of tobacco products are left strewn about in the site, spoiling the image of the state’s pride.

Further, spitting and breaking bottles have spoiled the view of the cemetery. It is also learned that some teenagers and students  come to the cemetery at around 8:00 AM and stay till 4:00 PM. It is informed that watchmen who try to prevent these visitors (especially students) from indulging in illegal activities, have been threatened with dire consequences. The officials of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission have sought public cooperation in taking care of the cemetery, and felt that security must  be provided.