Forensic teams investigating suspected war crimes in Zubin Potok have discovered bone remains believed to belong to at least 23 individuals, Kosovo authorities said Wednesday.
The Special Prosecution of the Republic of Kosovo, Kosovo Police and the Institute of Forensic Medicine announced the discovery as part of ongoing excavation and exhumation operations at suspected locations in the Zubin Potok area.
According to a preliminary assessment by forensic experts, the remains are believed to belong to at least 23 individuals. Authorities stressed that the identities of the deceased cannot be confirmed until forensic examinations and the relevant identification procedures are completed.
“The Special Prosecution and Kosovo Police, through the Directorate for the Investigation of War Crimes and in coordination with other competent institutions, will continue investigative and procedural actions related to this case,” the institutions said in a joint statement.
Three people — identified by the initials J.R., M.J. and M.B. — are currently under investigation in connection with the case on suspicion of committing war crimes against the civilian population. All three are being held in pretrial detention.
The latest discovery comes as Kosovo authorities continue investigations into suspected sites believed to contain the remains of people who disappeared during the 1998–1999 Kosovo war.
The Special Prosecution, Kosovo Police and Institute of Forensic Medicine said the investigation would be conducted professionally, impartially and with full documentation, while respecting the dignity of the victims and the families of missing persons.
Authorities said further information would be made public in accordance with legal requirements and the interests of the ongoing investigation.
