Three people have been arrested after plaques with the names of war heroes were stolen from a memorial.
Police launched an investigation following reports that bronze plaques featuring the names of those who had died in the First and Second World War had been taken in Devon.
Officers say the plaques have since been recovered after being stolen from the War Memorial in Ilfracombe between January 10 and 11.
The force arrested three people and charged two men following the theft.
Police launched an investigation following reports that bronze plaques featuring the names of those who had died in the First and Second World War had been taken in Devon
North and West Devon Police
Devon Police wrote on social media: "Words fail. #Ilfracombe war memorial plaques stolen.
"Local teams arrested three suspects this afternoon (in Bideford) and are in police custody, as enquiries continue. Pleased to say that the plaques have all been recovered and can be returned to their rightful place."
Jason Vickers, aged 43 of Barton Tors, Bideford and Ben Pearsall, aged 39, of Fore Street, Torrington, have been charged with handling stolen goods and dealing in tainted cultural objects.
A 51-year-old man has been released on police bail until 18 January.
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Sector Inspector Rich Preston said: "On Thursday 11 January 2024 we were notified of the removal and theft of six bronze plaques from the War Memorial, Church Street, Ilfracombe.
"These appear to have been stolen sometime between 2.30pm on Wednesday 10 January 2024 and 11.30am on Thursday 11 January 2024.
"These bronze plaques detailed both the names of those military personnel that lost their lives in the conflict of war 1914-1918 and 1939-1945.
"And also had commemorative inscriptions with which to honour the fallen.
The force arrested three people and has charged two men following the theft (stock image)
PA"We began to make enquiries in the local area and at around 12.45pm a call was received from a member of the public who believed they had seen the plaques in Bideford."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting log 290 of 11 January.
Information can also be passed anonymously through CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.
