Family’s horror as tot’s grave raided

APPALLED . . . Mohammed Zahoor at Taimoor Ahmed’s graveside in Greenacres Cemetery

Police launch appeal to find culprits

THE parents of baby Taimoor Ahmed have suffered another blow only days after what would have been his first birthday.

Taimoor was born on July 28, last year, and died at his home in Cotton Mill Crescent, Werneth, on March 23 from unascertained natural causes.

Parents Mohammed Zahoor and Sughran Bibi had decorated his grave in Greenacres Cemetery with solar garden lights and an ornament engraved with a heartfelt poem to their son.

But when Mr Zahoor visited the plot on Saturday, he was horrified to find the lights and ornaments had been stolen. The family, who originally replaced the lights after they were first stolen a month ago, have been left appalled by the thefts.

Mrs Bibi (32) said: “I was shocked and annoyed when I found out it had happened. It’s so disgusting and disgraceful to steal from graves.

“It was my son’s birthday two weeks ago so we decorated the grave and bought a balloon.

“His birthday balloon was still there so whoever did it must have known he was a baby.”

Mrs Bibi said she reported the theft to Greater Manchester Police who advised her not to immediately replace the items.

She said: “I reported the theft to the police who said it had happened quite often up there and not to replace the items for a few months.

“People put so many precious things on graves, lovely ornaments, I just don’t want this happening to them.”

Sergeant Steve Prescott, of the Oldham East Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We are aware of this incident and in response, neighbourhood officers have increased patrols in the area to deter further theft.

“It is terribly distressing for those visiting lost loved ones to find that their sentiments have been taken. The cemetery should be a peaceful place and not somewhere for anti-social behaviour and theft.

“I would urge anyone who knows anything about this incident to get in touch with us on 0161-872 5050 or contact the Oldham East Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0161-856 9028.

“Residents have raised concerns about anti-social behaviour around the cemetery.

“The neighbourhood team works hard to make sure our communities feel safe and will take tough action on those who cause problems in the area.”