Shocking Discovery: Human Bones Found in Mass Burial!
House-shaped rock structures from the Byzantine period located in Mut’s Çömelek District are attracting attention, but unfortunately, they have become the target of treasure hunters. These treasure hunters have been carrying out illegal excavations in front of historical houses, causing damage to human bones that were allegedly buried collectively in those areas. Gendarmerie teams are currently working to combat these illegal excavations in the region.
Ruhan Yiğit, the headman of Çömelek Neighborhood, is calling for the protection of the region and the preservation of its cultural treasures. He stated that there are rock carvings of rock tombs in the Kapız area of the Göğden plateau, which is located 50 kilometers away from their district and 10 kilometers from the village center. This place used to be visited by travelers who were exploring the area and appreciating its historical significance. However, it is now invaded by individuals searching for antiques and treasures, causing irreparable damage.
Headman Yiğit expressed his concerns about the ongoing excavation activities, stating that bones have been unearthed during these excavations. While gendarmerie teams and Museum Directorate officials had examined the site around a year ago, no further action has been taken since then. He also revealed that treasure hunters continue to dig daily, and each time they visit, they discover different bones. He expressed the frustrations of travelers and nature lovers who reach out to him, urging for a solution to this problem.
According to Yiğit, it is crucial for the relevant authorities to inspect the bones that have been unearthed and conduct a thorough examination of the site. He believes that with a more detailed examination, the connection between this place and Taşkale, a nearby area, can be discovered. There are indications that this place was used by the Byzantines, possibly as a house or a granary. Yiğit emphasized the importance of preserving these historical structures for future generations and called for the immediate intervention of the authorities.
The situation in Mut’s Çömelek District serves as a reminder of the need to protect and preserve our cultural heritage. It is essential to put an end to the activities of treasure hunters and to enforce strict regulations to prevent further damage to these valuable historical sites. The cooperation between local communities, law enforcement agencies, and government authorities is crucial in safeguarding our shared heritage for future generations.
