Chemmani Mass Grave Investigation Identifies 412 Human Skeletons; Excavation to Resume on July 15
CHEMMANI, TAMIL HOMELAND – The ongoing excavation at the Chemmani mass grave site has reached another significant milestone, with seven additional human skeletons carefully cleaned and fully recovered on Tuesday.
According to the latest update from the excavation team, a total of 412 human skeletons have now been identified across the three phases of the Chemmani mass grave investigation. Of these, 409 skeletons have been fully excavated and documented.
No new skeletal remains were identified during today’s excavation activities.
The excavation has now been temporarily suspended to allow for a scheduled rest period for members of the archaeological and forensic teams. Investigative work at the site is expected to resume on 15 July.
The continued discovery of human remains at Chemmani underscores the scale of the tragedy and reinforces the urgent need for a comprehensive, transparent, and internationally credible process to establish the identities of the victims and the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Families of the disappeared, human rights advocates, and members of the Tamil community have repeatedly called for:
• Independent forensic analysis of all recovered remains.
• International technical assistance and monitoring.
• DNA identification of victims wherever possible.
• Preservation of all evidence in accordance with international standards.
• Full accountability for those responsible for enforced disappearances and unlawful killings.
With 412 human skeletons now identified, Chemmani stands as one of the most significant mass grave investigations in Sri Lanka’s history and represents a critical opportunity to advance truth, justice, and accountability for victims and their families.
The families of the disappeared continue to await answers regarding the fate of their loved ones and call upon the international community to ensure that the investigation proceeds without interference and in accordance with international human rights and forensic standards.
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June 23, 2026