Three charged over alleged body tampering at Browns Plains funeral

Three people have been charged after allegedly tampering with a body at Swanborough Funerals in Browns Plains, in Brisbane's south.

Brisbane Magistrates Court heard the trio asked for privacy and time alone with a relative for cultural reasons. Police allege Brian Christian Wong, Cassandra Hunter and Changmin Koo entered the funeral home armed with scissors, scalpels and blades, intending to wound a dead body.

The funeral home's operator said staff gave the group space, then went back in to check on them and realised something different was happening. She said gloves were being put away and believes staff were tricked into leaving the room.

The team then moved quickly. Police were called, and the staff's focus turned to the deceased.

Police allege one of the men fled and was found nearby hours later. The second man and the woman stayed until officers arrived.

Each has been charged with misconduct with a corpse, entering a premises with intent to commit an indictable offence, and being armed with intent to enter a premises and commit an indictable offence.

The operator said she has since received messages of support from funeral homes around the country, many expressing shock and disbelief. She said the incident has affected her emotionally and left her on a rollercoaster, because she is passionate about caring for families.

All three were remanded in custody. Further court hearings are due to begin next week. The charges are allegations and have not been tested in court.