A reward of up to £5,000 has been announced by Crimestoppers for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the vandalism of Muslim graves at Carpenders Park Cemetery in Hertfordshire.
The hate crime, which saw numerous graves targeted in a disturbing act of Islamophobic vandalism, occurred between 1pm on Friday, April 11, and 5pm on Saturday, April 12 at the cemetery located on Oxhey Lane.
Despite ongoing investigations, no arrests have been made, and Hertfordshire Police have yet to release a description of any potential suspects.
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Crimestoppers, an independent UK charity committed to anonymous crime reporting, has now stepped in with a £5,000 incentive for information shared exclusively through its secure platforms.
“This appalling act of destruction has deeply affected the local community and beyond,” said a spokesperson for Crimestoppers. “We are now offering a reward of up to £5,000 to encourage anyone with relevant knowledge to come forward. By reporting anonymously, you help support justice without putting yourself at risk.”
Reports can be submitted anonymously via the Crimestoppers hotline at 0800 555 111 or through their website crimestoppers-uk.org.
Annabelle Goodenough, the regional manager for Crimestoppers South East, expressed solidarity with the affected families:
“We stand with the Muslim community during this painful time. Everyone deserves to have their loved ones laid to rest in peace. Through anonymous reporting, people can take action without fear. We urge anyone who knows anything to step forward.”
Meanwhile, Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson of Hertfordshire Police reaffirmed their commitment to a thorough investigation:
“We are treating this incident as a targeted Islamophobic attack. Our officers are exploring every possible line of enquiry. The distress caused by this crime is immense, and we remain fully committed to finding those responsible.”
The Crimestoppers reward will only be applicable if information is passed directly to the charity and not to police authorities. Those providing tips must request a reward code when contacting Crimestoppers. If using the online form, the ‘keeping in contact’ function must be enabled from the outset.
In response to the attack, around 100 people gathered for an interfaith vigil at Carpenders Park Cemetery, coming together in a heartfelt show of unity against hate.
Adnan Rafique, chair of the Bushey Islamic Circle, praised the solidarity shown:
“Your presence—whether in prayer, silence, or support—sent a resounding message that hatred and division will never define us. Together, we stand resilient.”
Councillor Asif Khan added:
“In our collective sorrow, we discovered strength. We made it clear that hate has no home here. We choose peace over fear, and unity over division.”
This incident has highlighted the need for continued vigilance and mutual support within communities as they work together to combat acts of hate and uphold the dignity of all.