War graves vandalised in Melb cemetery

Dozens of graves have been vandalised in a Melbourne cemetery, including 12 war graves, in what police have labelled a heartless crime.

Almost 50 plaques were stolen from gravestones in Frankston Cemetery overnight on May 12, leaving a damage bill of $24,000.

Detective Senior Constable Mark Garrett says despite only being able to get about $10 for each plaque, they may be sold for scrap metal.

He's warning scrap metal dealers to be vigilant.