Security and rescue sources confirmed on Wednesday that a mass grave containing multiple bodies has been uncovered in the western countryside of al-Safira, east of Aleppo city.

According to state-run media, internal security forces swiftly cordoned off the site to prevent tampering while teams from public security and forensic departments mobilised to conduct initial assessments. A spokesperson for Aleppo’s provincial security directorate told North Press that first responders were maintaining a strict perimeter until forensic specialists arrive to begin systematic excavation, documentation, and identification procedures.

The Syrian Civil Defence (White Helmets), active primarily in opposition-held regions, stated that its specialised teams have been assisting local responders in areas where access and safety conditions allow. The organisation noted that discoveries of this nature often require multi-agency cooperation due to the complexity and sensitivity of handling unidentified remains.

This latest find comes days after the Civil Defence in Homs announced the start of operations to identify remains recovered from a newly discovered mass grave in the Karam al-Zaytoun neighbourhood. Human rights groups have long documented numerous mass graves across Syria, many dating to some of the most intense phases of the country’s prolonged conflict.

Authorities in Aleppo province say the investigation will continue as forensic experts work to determine the identities of the victims and the circumstances surrounding their deaths. (ILKHA)