300 bodies and counting in Mannar mass grave

<p><img alt="Image removed." src="/core/misc/icons/e32700/error.svg" title="This image has been removed. For security reasons, only images from the local domain are allowed." height="16" width="16" class="filter-image-invalid"></p> <p>The chief investigator at the Mannar mass grave confirmed that the number of bodies excavated has now reached 300, as the toll from the island’s largest mass grave site continues to grow.</p> <p>Judicial Medical Officer Dr S Rajapaksa confirmed the new figure as excavation work continues, with the area they are now investigating expanded. Work began at the grave site in May last year.</p> <p>The remains of at least 23 children have been identified amongst the bodies discovered so far, with samples being sent to Florida for carbon dating studies.</p> <p>As well as signs of torture, observers had been disturbed by the discovery of bones bound by metal.</p> <p>Tamil families of the disappeared held a demonstration in Mannar last year, demanding action to identify the victims found in the Mannar mass grave, fearing the fate of their forcibly loved ones.</p>