Dozens Hurt in Jakarta Mosque Blast During Friday Prayers

Post by : Raina Nasser

A significant explosion in a Jakarta mosque during Friday prayers has resulted in numerous injuries in Indonesia's capital city. This alarming incident unfolded in a school compound located in the Kelapa Gading neighborhood of North Jakarta, triggering widespread panic among worshippers and nearby students.

Officials reported that at least 54 individuals were rushed to various hospitals as a result of the explosion. Injuries reported range from minor cuts to severe burns, as explained by Jakarta police chief Asep Edi Suheri during a press briefing broadcasted live.

In response, police are conducting a thorough investigation to uncover the cause of the explosion, with forensic teams and bomb disposal experts deployed to the site to collect evidence. They aim to determine if the blast resulted from a gas leak, an electrical malfunction, or another origin.

Emergency services acted promptly with multiple ambulances arriving at the location quickly. Local news footage displayed the mosque cordoned off with police tape, while rescue teams worked to assist the injured and secure the area.

Images from the scene suggested that the mosque remained structurally intact, although debris and burn marks were visible near the area where worshippers congregate. Eyewitness accounts described a scene of complete chaos as attendees fled in fear following the explosion.

Authorities have called for calm and urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information while the investigation is ongoing. Officials from the Jakarta Disaster Management Agency and the Ministry of Religious Affairs are actively coordinating medical assistance and relief efforts for the affected individuals.

This shocking incident has deeply unsettled the local community, particularly since Friday prayers typically attract large crowds. The police have committed to providing updates as preliminary results emerge from the investigation.