Police have condemned the theft of war veteran plaques from an Invercargill cemetery as a “particularly low act”. 

A 44-year-old man has been charged with theft by Invercargill Police after plaques went missing from St John’s Cemetery between October 28 and November 22. 

Nine plaques were taken in total, four of which were taken from the graves of Returned Service personnel who served in World War I and World War II. 

Senior Constable Craig Colyer said all nine plaques have since been recovered, but, sadly, some were damaged beyond repair. 

“While we are pleased the plaques have been located, it is disappointing that not all could be restored to their original condition,” he said. 

“Theft at any time is appalling, but targeting a cemetery is a particularly low act. 

“We hope this arrest brings some comfort to the affected families, and we want to thank the public for their assistance with the investigation.” 

The accused will appear in the Invercargill District Court on January 13.