Police in Plymouth have launched an investigation into a hate crime after the Holocaust Memorial on the Hoe was vandalized. The damage, which affected the stone and plinth of the memorial, is believed to have occurred between 9:00 PM on Wednesday, January 29, and shortly after 10:00 AM on Thursday, January 30. According to authorities, there was also an attempt to remove the Holocaust Memorial Plaque from the Garden of Peace.

PC Stacey Vidler, who is leading the investigation, stated: "While crimes like this are rare, this incident has understandably caused significant distress within the Jewish community. We urge anyone who may have information or witnessed suspicious activity around the memorial to come forward and assist in our investigation."

Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed that they are treating the incident as a hate crime. Officers are appealing to anyone who may have been in the area at the time or who might have noticed any unusual behavior near the memorial to contact them.

A police spokesperson said: "Investigations are ongoing, and we encourage anyone with relevant information to reach out. If you saw or heard anything suspicious near the Holocaust Memorial around the time of the incident, please get in touch with us."

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact police online or by calling 101, quoting crime reference number 50250024550.