5,500-year-old skeletons reveal mafia-style killings, researchers say

(CNN) – Ancient skeletons unearthed in France reveal that two women may have died in mafia-style killings.

According to a study published in the journal Science Advances, researchers believe the women died about 5,500 years ago. They were likely buried alive in a ritual sacrifice, a form of torture now associated with the Italian mafia.

Researchers believe the burial site acted as a place where people gathered to mark the turning of the seasons, which may have involved human sacrifices.

At least 20 other skeletons found at other archaeological sites across Europe also suggest sacrificial killings, according to the study.

Researchers said this leads them to believe the practice may have been relatively widespread during that time.

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