Kosovo finds third wartime mass grave site as officials widen search | Conflict News
Excavation Work Uncovers Potential Mass Graves from Kosovo War
Published: August 4, 2026
Authorities in Kosovo have identified a third potential mass grave site as investigations into alleged war crimes from the 1998-99 conflict continue. Following the discovery of human remains at a second site on Monday, officials announced plans to begin excavations at the newly identified location on Tuesday.
To date, the remains of 11 individuals have been recovered from the sites. In a statement, the Special Prosecutor’s Office emphasized the sensitive nature of the investigation and declined to provide additional details.
The Kosovo war, which involved ethnic Albanians seeking independence from Serbian forces, resulted in over 10,000 fatalities, primarily among ethnic Albanians, and displaced more than one million individuals. Authorities report that approximately 1,600 people remain missing.
Excavation efforts commenced last week in the Zubin Potok area and are expected to expand, with officials estimating that as many as 23 individuals may be buried near surrounding villages. The recovered remains have been sent for DNA testing and identification, but public prosecutors cautioned that this process could extend over several months.
In a statement on Facebook, Acting President Albulena Haxhiu described the discovery of the second mass grave as a sobering reminder of wartime atrocities. She noted that each uncovered grave contributes to the search for truth while underscoring the ongoing impact of the conflict.
“Every discovered grave is a step toward the truth, but also evidence that the wounds of war remain open until the last missing person is found and those responsible are brought to justice,” Haxhiu stated.
In a separate post on X, Haxhiu alleged that Serbia is obstructing justice by concealing information about the missing and intimidating witnesses. She urged international partners to denounce these actions, asserting that Kosovo will continue its efforts until all victims are accounted for.
Kosovo police have arrested three local men on suspicion of war crimes related to the conflict. Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti commented that the remains are likely those of 23 Albanians who were reportedly abducted and executed during the spring of 1999.
