Police in Australia are searching for a grave robber following two incidents in which human remains were stolen from a cemetery.
Victoria Police said on Tuesday that they are investigating links to a “satanic ritual” after partial remains were taken from two gravesites four days apart at Footscray General Cemetery in Melbourne, according to CNN.
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Police said they found several items left behind at the scene, including a crucifix, candles, and letters to Satan, the outlet said.
The first incident took place between Thursday night and Friday morning, when officers found that human remains had been taken from a mausoleum. Police say a second, related incident happened overnight between Monday and Tuesday, when “unknown offenders” stole partial human remains, according to a statement.
“The human remains were the primary focus of the offender and that is what we are focusing on,” Inspector Ben Jarman told the outlet. “It’s very distressing for the families. They expect their loved ones to be put to rest at peace.”
No other graves were disturbed in the incidents.
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Police said they have increased security at the cemetery as they continue their investigation.
