On Thursday at around 11:57 AM, authorities in the Klaipėda region received a report from a local municipal representative regarding the theft of a statue of the Virgin Mary from a chapel adjacent to a cemetery in Rūdaičių village. The statue, which represents the Holy Virgin Mary of Goodness, was reported stolen on January 21st. Local police have estimated the damage caused by this theft to be around 4,000 euros, highlighting the seriousness of the incident.

The Klaipėda County Police Department has initiated a pre-trial investigation into the theft. This highlights not only the act of theft but also the community's concern for the sanctity of local memorials and places of worship. Such incidents can lead to a greater dialogue around the protection of cultural and religious heritage, especially in rural areas where such chapels are often of significant local importance.

The theft of religious statues from places of worship is not an isolated issue, as it often raises broader concerns regarding crime rates, community safety, and the preservation of local culture. As investigations continue, it remains crucial for the local authorities to ensure that measures are in place to prevent similar crimes in the future and for the community to remain vigilant in protecting their spiritual and cultural symbols.