Exhumation work in Ostrówki and Wola Ostrowiecka in Volhynia has led to shocking discoveries. The remains of at least 38 people have already been uncovered. The remains bear signs of severe mechanical trauma. Photographs from the excavation site reveal the scale of the tragedy suffered by the Poles murdered there in 1943.
The Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) is conducting work in the former villages of Ostrówki and Wola Ostrowiecka, located in the former Luboml County in Volhynia. The exhumation, during which the remains of Poles murdered in 1943 will be recovered, is scheduled to continue until August 7.
So far, the remains of at least 38 individuals have been uncovered. As the grave pit continues to be excavated, additional victims are being discovered. The bodies had been carelessly thrown into the mass grave in a disorderly manner. The remains lie in random positions, with no traces of coffins or burial boxes.
Many of the remains—particularly the skulls—show evidence of severe mechanical injuries. Personal belongings, including religious medals, crosses, clothing items such as buckles and buttons, and pieces of jewelry, have also been found alongside the remains.
“The upper layer of the burial is currently being uncovered. The recovery of the remains will begin once the skeletons have been fully exposed,” the IPN’s Office for Search and Identification said.
The photographs documenting the ongoing work were taken by Fr. Tomasz Trzaska of the Institute of National Remembrance.