SIT secures sixth excavation site near Nethravathi river; forensic analysis of recovered bones to follow as investigation intensifies
Mangaluru: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the suspected mass burials in Dharmasthala has significantly increased security at the sixth excavation site, where skeletal remains were recently discovered. The remains collection process at this site is in its final stages, and authorities are ensuring that no evidence is lost or tampered with.
The location, situated on the banks of the Nethravathi River, was identified by the primary complainant in the case who had earlier claimed that hundreds of bodies were allegedly buried across various forest locations near Dharmasthala. The discovery at Site 6 has given a major push to the ongoing investigation.
Protective Measures in Place at Site 6
Given the site's vulnerability to rainwater and river overflow, the SIT has installed protective sheets on the top and all four sides of the excavation pit to shield the remains from damage. These precautions are aimed at preserving the integrity of skeletal evidence, which will be crucial in the forensic analysis that follows.
"All necessary precautions are being taken to ensure the preservation of the remains. The site is under continuous surveillance," a senior police official said.
Forensic Collection and Lab Testing Planned
The remains, including bones believed to be part of a larger ossuary, are expected to be sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) shortly. Police sources indicated that remains from this site, along with items recovered from two other locations, will be sent collectively to facilitate comparative forensic examination and DNA testing.
The forensic team is working in close coordination with the SIT to ensure that scientific protocols are followed in the collection and preservation of each fragment recovered from the ground.
Debris Collection Nears Completion
Officials said that the debris and remains collection process at Site 6 is nearly complete, and the team is ensuring that every inch of the excavation is carefully combed. The SIT is maintaining a tight perimeter and has restricted access to the site to avoid external interference.
This development comes amid an ongoing probe into allegations that multiple bodies were buried secretly in the Dharmasthala region. The SIT has already identified several such locations, and excavation efforts are being carried out systematically, under the supervision of legal and forensic experts.
Wider Investigation Underway
With the discovery of remains at Site 6, the SIT’s investigation has entered a critical phase. While earlier excavations at five locations yielded no significant results, the findings at this sixth site have reignited interest and urgency in the case. The team continues to assess additional sites identified by the complainant to determine the full extent of the alleged burials.
Officials reiterated that the investigation remains confidential and ongoing, and urged the public to refrain from speculation until the forensic results are made available.
Dharmasthala Mass Burial Case: Human Skeleton Discovered at Sixth Site During SIT Probe
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