Post by : Rameen Ariff

Jakarta – In a startling incident, numerous individuals were injured Friday due to an explosion at a mosque situated within a Jakarta high school. The explosion occurred around 12:15 local time (05:15 GMT) in Kelapa Gading, a neighborhood in North Jakarta, during Friday prayers, leaving the local community reeling.

Jakarta police chief Asep Edi Suheri confirmed that 54 people were hospitalized with injuries ranging from minor to severe, including burn wounds. Three individuals suffered serious injuries, while 17 others were reported to have minor wounds. Several victims were treated on-site and released afterward.

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police quickly launched an inquiry, sending a bomb disposal unit to the high school grounds. Security forces cordoned off the area, with military personnel stationed at the entrance. Initial reports indicated the presence of two objects resembling firearms. Images showed one looking like a submachine gun and another like a pistol. The markings on the submachine gun-like object referenced "14 words. For Agartha" and "Brenton Tarrant. Welcome to Hell," reminiscent of the Christchurch mosque attack in 2019.

However, a government minister visiting later clarified that these firearms were, in fact, toy guns. Authorities cautioned the public against jumping to conclusions regarding terrorism until investigations are finalized. A dark green belt for gun cartridges was also discovered at the site.

Preliminary accounts from a student suggested that a homemade bomb might have been brought into the mosque by a student who had faced bullying, though this claim remains unconfirmed by authorities.

As the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation, Indonesia has reinforced its vigilance at public religious sites following this incident. Police continue their investigation into the explosion, looking into the device's source and any potential motives behind it.

Authorities have urged for public calm as security and investigative teams carry out comprehensive searches to ensure safety for both students and worshippers.

#Global