IPN Begins 8th Search Phase at Górki Czechowskie

13 May 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

IPN searches at Górki Czechowskie focus on locating wartime burials and helping identify victims.

The Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) began the eighth phase of field searches on Górki Czechowskie in Lublin.

IPN searches at Górki Czechowskie aim to locate unidentified burial sites linked to German wartime terror.

Table of Contents

What investigators are looking for

Investigators focus on areas near the main gully, oriented north to south.

Moreover, this ground connects directly to sectors searched from 2022 to 2025.

Consequently, teams expect new finds that may extend earlier discoveries.

In addition, they seek single remains and possible collective graves.

Recent discoveries and why they matter

The first notable find appeared in May 2022.

Workers found small human bone fragments near a current playground.

However, later seasons revealed deeper evidence.

Between 2022 and 2025, teams uncovered five mass graves.

They retrieved remains belonging to more than 60 people.

Therefore, historians now treat the site as historically significant.

Moreover, forensic work can help identify victims and assign names.

Also, identifications use DNA and historical records.

IPN searches at Górki Czechowskie: the current phase

The regional prosecutor’s office in Lublin opened the inquiry.

The IPN team will conduct the eighth stage over three weeks.

They will work in the central gully and extend southwards.

Meanwhile, crews will use archaeology and forensic methods.

In addition, results could alter our understanding of local wartime events.

What this means for residents and expats

Local authorities may temporarily restrict access near work sites.

Consequently, expect cordons and occasional noise from machinery.

If you live nearby, avoid the fenced areas.

Moreover, media attention may increase in the coming weeks.

Therefore, remain respectful near memorial or disturbed ground.

You may also need your PESEL (national ID number) if you interact with authorities.

In addition, embassies can advise families who suspect relatives might be involved.

Also, public services such as ZUS (social insurance) or NFZ (public health fund) do not handle searches.

Instead, the IPN manages the investigation and post-exhumation care.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you are an expat near Lublin, expect restricted access and media coverage. Contact your embassy if you suspect a family link. Respect site rules and avoid any unauthorised digging. For identifications, expect DNA testing and coordination with civil registries. Note that a mandat (police fine) may apply for trespassing. Also, have your PESEL (national ID number) ready when dealing with civil offices.

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