Mass grave found in northeastern Afghanistan

Mass grave found in northeastern Afghanistan

2011-10-21 02:55:59 GMT+7 (ICT)

TALOQAN, AFGHANISTAN (BNO NEWS) -- A mass grave containing at least 20 bodies and possibly more has been found in the northeastern region of Afghanistan, officials said on Thursday.

The mass grave was found on the Jawzkhana mound in the village of Sayab, which is located in the Rostaq district of Afghanistan's northern Takhar province. It was discovered while local residents were digging up the mound, district officials told Pajhwok Afghan News.

According to Rostaq district chief Mohammad Hussain, around 20 skulls and several skeletal bones showing signs of mutilation were found in the mass grave. Residents informed local police about the findings and authorities reached the area shortly after.

Governor spokesperson Faiz Mohammad Tawhidi said dozens of bodies could still be buried in the mass grave. Meanwhile, deputy police chief Major General Mahmudul Hassan said details such as those behind the killings and how old the grave is were still uncertain.

Authorities were still examining the site on Thursday.

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