Police are investigating after a religious prayer sign at Almondbury Cemetery was vandalised with graffiti reading “Islam Out”. The sign, which displayed a prayer (dua) in Arabic script, was painted over in white before the slogan was spray-painted across it.
West Yorkshire Police said the damage is believed to have happened within the six days before it was reported on 19 July 2026. The sign was later removed by Kirklees Council.
The incident has been condemned by local residents, with one describing it as an “absolutely vile” act.
The Kirklees Green Party also criticised what it called “targeted vandalism” and expressed concern about what it said was a rise in Islamophobic incidents and statements in the borough.
In a statement, the group said: “The criminal act of targeted vandalism of a sign showing a prayer/dua in Arabic script at Almondbury Cemetery is something all politicians should condemn.”
A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: “Police received a report on 19 July of criminal damage to a religious sign at Almondbury Cemetery. “It was reported that the damage had taken place sometime in the past six days.
“The Neighbourhood Policing Team has increased patrols in the area and been actively engaging with the community to try and identify those involved.”
Kirklees Council confirmed it is working with police following the incident.
A council spokesperson said: “The council are liaising with the police on this matter and patrols in the area have been increased. We work with the police and local communities and always urge people to report issues so that they can be addressed as quickly as possible.”
The council added that incidents involving vandalism, intimidation, aggressive behaviour and other forms of anti-social behaviour should be reported so appropriate action can be taken.
