Steve Biko's Gravesite Vandalized in South Africa, Azapo Condemns Harassment 'Beyond the Grave'

The gravesite of anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko in Qonce, South Africa, was vandalized on Friday, April 19, 2024. A man has been arrested for allegedly stealing two bronze fists attached to Biko's tombstone and selling them to a local scrapyard for R190.

The Azanian People's Organisation (Azapo), Biko's former liberation movement, has condemned the incident, claiming that the black consciousness icon is being "harassed beyond the grave." Azapo has called on the Buffalo City Metro to provide security at the gravesite following the theft.

The vandalism was reported to the Eastern Cape police, who have since apprehended a suspect in connection with the crime. According to police reports, the suspect sold the stolen bronze fists to a local scrap metal dealer.

Why this matters: The desecration of Steve Biko's gravesite highlights the ongoing struggle to preserve the legacy of anti-apartheid activists in South Africa. The incident also raises concerns about the security measures in place to protect historical sites and monuments of national significance.

In response to the vandalism, an Azapo spokesperson stated, "This amounts to harassing the black consciousness icon from beyond the grave. We call upon the Buffalo City Metro to provide security at the gravesite to prevent further incidents of this nature." The organization has urged authorities to take swift action to ensure the protection and preservation of Biko's final resting place.

Key Takeaways

• Steve Biko's gravesite in Qonce, SA, was vandalized, with bronze fists stolen.
• A suspect was arrested for selling the stolen fists to a scrapyard.
• Azapo condemned the incident, calling it harassment of the anti-apartheid icon.
• Azapo urged authorities to provide security at the gravesite to prevent further incidents.
• The vandalism highlights the ongoing struggle to preserve the legacy of anti-apartheid activists.