Crime-reporting charity Crimestoppers is offering a potentially substantial reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the vandalism of two war memorials in London.
The RAF Bomber Command War Memorial, which was created to remember the thousands of RAF crew who lost their lives in the Second World War, was vandalised in Green Park with red graffiti.
In addition, the Animals in War Memorial in Hyde Park, which honours animals that have served and died for the British military forces, was also vandalised with similar red graffiti.
Crimestoppers is offering this reward for information passed to the charity’s 0800 555 111 number that leads to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible for this crime.
Founder and Chairman of Crimestoppers, Lord Ashcroft, KCMG PC, said: “I am appalled that heartless criminals have taken it upon themselves to deface two memorials that remember those that have fought so bravely for our country.
“Like many of us, I feel very strongly about respecting those in our Armed Forces and the sacrifices they have made, and I do not accept that this crime should go unpunished. I am therefore appealing to anyone with information on who did this to come forward anonymously and do the right thing.
“Since I founded the charity 25 years, no member of the public who has contacted us has ever had their anonymity compromised and I can assure you that this will not change. You will never have to go to court or give a statement to the police. Just tell us what you know, not who you are.”
Director of Operations for Crimestoppers, Roger Critchell, added: “Events like this are rare, but when they do occur, we take them very seriously.
“Do not let the person or people responsible for this huge disrespect get away with their actions. Contact us anonymously, and I guarantee your identity will never be revealed.”
To be eligible for the reward, information must be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Information can be given via a secure online form found on www.crimestoppers-uk.org, but will not be eligible for a reward. Information given directly to the police will also not be eligible for the reward.
Rewards are offered on a case by case basis for each criminal offence following discussions and coordination with the lead law enforcement agency. Crimestoppers is a non-judgemental and apolitical organisation whose remit is to fight, and take information, on all crime.
