DPS: Marpi bones make up two sets of human remains
The Department of Public Safety confirmed yesterday that two sets of human remains found in Marpi last week are from World War II, however, they added that one incomplete set of human remains appears to be less than 20 years old.
In a press release yesterday, assistant chief of police and acting public information officer Simon T. Manacop shared that the investigation provided new insights into the origin and timeframe of the remains, sharing that between July 8 and 9, 2024, a thorough canvass was conducted in the two caves where the skeletal remains were initially reported.
Manacop said detectives and crime scene technicians from the Criminal Investigation Bureau, alongside personnel from the Historic Preservation Office, spearheaded the follow-up investigation on the sets of human remains.
DPS said the remains examined by an archaeologist and osteologist from HPO were identified as being consistent with World War II-era remains. Following the examination, these remains were respectfully returned to their original locations within the caves, as per the recommendations of HPO.
However, the investigation took an intriguing turn with the discovery of an incomplete set of bones from one of the caves. Initial assessments suggest these bones are not from the World War II period, but are approximately 20 years old. Due to the incomplete nature of the remains, it has been challenging to ascertain whether they belong to one or more individuals. Additionally, characteristics such as age or gender remain undetermined, pending further laboratory examinations.
The CIB has announced plans to seek assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation for advanced laboratory analysis to gain more clarity on the findings.
Manacop reiterated DPS’ commitment to uncovering the full details behind the human remains uncovered in Marpi. “This investigation is ongoing and we are dedicated to determining the origin and history of the discovered remains.”
DPS said that as more information becomes available, updates will be provided to the public.
Simon Manacop
