Southern Cross News has reported that vandals damaged the property and also stole goods from the hall at the Sikh temple in Port Augusta, South Australia. When the Sikh sangat came to the temple on Sunday afternoon for their daily prayers and langar, they found the glass on the windows smashed.
Source: SBS
“Yesterday when we came here we felt really bad, it’s very disappointing because it took us a long time to get this building for our temple” said Mr Sunny Singh, who is a member of the Sikh community in Port Augusta.
Every Sunday, about sixty people gather at the temple to share a meal and also hand out food to the poor. Mr Singh also helps in the kitchen to prepare meals.
“This is a community hall and a temple. It’s not only for the Sikhs or Indian community, it’s for everyone” he said.
The Port Augusta police are investigating the incident and believe that a stolen security camera could lead them to the culprits.
Sgt Stephen Fitzgerald from Port Augusta police said they were hopeful of finding the offenders.
“We understand that the security camera is linked to the CCTV which is operational so that’s actually is being looked at.”
The vandals caused a damage of around $4000 to the building but in an act of kindness, Mr Singh extended help to the offenders.
“If they need any help or any sort of things they need, they can come and talk to us we will help them in any way.”
The crime is not believed to be racially motivated.
Anyone with any information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
