The dig in the farmland where toddler Ben Needham went missing 26 years ago was dramatically halted after investigators discover several ancient graves. The discovery comes after officers found evidence of “decomposition” in the olive grove behind the farmhouse where 21-month-old Ben disappeared. So far, forensic scientists have been unable to rule out whether the “decomposition” is human. In tests from three other areas they managed to establish the decomposed remains were that of a dog, a bat and from human waste from a cess tank.
The “four or five” tombs that have been discovered are estimated to be up to 2,000 years old. This discovery means that British police have to seek permission from the Greek authorities to continue digging.
However, lead investigator DI Jon Cousins insisted digging in other parts of the site will continue.
The burial ground includes tombs believed to be Roman covered in pottery between 1,500 and 2,000 years old.
DI Cousins said: “Some of the work we have done forensically over the last five years has led us to this place.
“We have informed the family about it. We have informed the archaeological society in Kos about it and they have put a stop to work in this area.”
Police hope archaeologists will establish that the land at that depth would not have been disturbed during the time of Ben’s disappearance.
If the burial site is deemed part of the soil Team Ben wish to excavate, they will require permission from the Greek archaeological society.
Meanwhile investigators began digging at the base of a fig tree after a photo showed it must have been planted since the toddler went missing. Other members of the Team Ben are also looking into a well nearby.
Full story and pictures in Daily Mirror
Right, 2,000 year old skeletons are much more important than a recent murder of a child, of course. You Greeks really do have your priorities sorted…