Vandals desecrate dozens of graves in Chamchamal’s Shorash subdistrict

CHAMCHAMAL — Between 20 and 50 graves have been vandalized or disturbed over the past two weeks in the Wasman Ghazali cemetery, located in the Shorash subdistrict of Chamchamal district, according to residents and local sources. The cemetery remains unfenced and unguarded, making it easily accessible to people and animals.

A source familiar with the situation told 964media, “It’s not difficult for anyone to enter the cemetery. Many times, we’ve seen animals wandering inside.” The cemetery contains old graves, some belonging to families from Shorash who continue to visit their relatives’ burial sites.

Mulla Bastoon, a nearby resident, said Saturday, “Some of the graves have been broken and others dug up. We’ve lived next to this cemetery for years and have never seen such reckless acts. Whoever did this clearly has no sense of responsibility.”

It remains unclear who is behind the desecration or what their motives may be. Bastoon added, “This cemetery is abandoned. No one takes responsibility for it, and without a fence, animals often enter, which has caused distress to those visiting their loved ones.”

Hawta Aziz, head of the Shorash subdistrict, told 964media, “This is the first we’re hearing about it. No one has filed a complaint, and our office has not been informed until now.”

Located roughly two kilometers from the nearest residential area, the cemetery has not been monitored closely. Aziz said authorities will now “launch a serious investigation to find out who is responsible and take legal action.”