Anti-Terror Squad Joins Investigation into Jakarta School Mosque Explosion
Jakarta. More than 50 people were injured when multiple explosions rocked the mosque of State Senior High School 72 (SMA Negeri 72) in North Jakarta during Friday prayers, prompting Indonesia’s anti-terror squad, Detachment 88, to join the ongoing investigation, authorities said.
The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. inside the mosque located within a Navy compound in Kelapa Gading, where students and teachers were attending Friday prayers. Initial reports estimated 20 casualties, but police later confirmed the number of injured had risen to 54, with no fatalities reported.
Jakarta Police Chief Inspector General Asep Edi Suheri said the victims -- mostly students and school staff -- suffered injuries from glass shards and blast pressure. They were taken to two nearby hospitals for treatment.
Asep added that investigators have not yet found evidence linking the explosion to terrorism. “The investigation is still ongoing,” he said.
Detachment 88 spokesperson Mayndra Eka Wardhana confirmed that the elite anti-terror unit has been deployed to determine whether the incident involved the intentional use of explosive materials. “Our team is assessing whether any terrorist motive or network was involved,” he said.
The Jakarta Police bomb squad also secured the scene to prevent further explosions and collect forensic evidence. “We must ensure the site is safe before continuing the investigation -- we don’t yet know the exact source or cause of the blast,” said Jakarta Police spokesperson Budi Hermanto.
Witnesses described scenes of panic when a sudden blast erupted from the back of the mosque’s prayer hall, filling the room with smoke. “The sermon had just started when the explosion occurred. Everyone ran outside -- some were crying, others fell in panic,” said Budi Laksono, a teacher who was leading students during the service.
Investigators earlier discovered suspicious objects at the site -- including wiring resembling a homemade explosive device, a remote control, and several airsoft and revolver-type firearms -- though police have not confirmed whether they are connected to the explosion.
Authorities are examining multiple possible causes, including an electrical short circuit, electronic device malfunction, or deliberate detonation.
The school area remains under tight security by Navy personnel and police, with a forensic and bomb-disposal team continuing their examination into the night.
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