Overview

• Iraqi teams initiated surface excavation at the Khasfa sinkhole on Aug. 9, unearthing skulls and other visible human remains.
• A 2018 UN report and official estimates suggest at least 4,000 bodies lie in the sinkhole, making it one of Iraq’s largest suspected ISIS-era mass graves.
• During a 15-day initial phase, authorities are collecting DNA samples from families to build a genetic database for future identifications.
• Full exhumation and forensic analysis remain on hold until laboratory processing is in place and international expertise can address hazards like sulphur-contaminated water, porous soil and unexploded ordnance.
• Victims are believed to include Iraqi army and police personnel, Yazidi women and other civilians executed by ISIS, according to official statements and witness accounts.