West Java: A total of 13 people were killed Monday in an explosion of expired munitions in West Java, Indonesia, The Jakarta Globe reported, citing the army.

According to Anadolu Agency, the explosion took place at approximately 9.30 am (0230GMT) local time during a scheduled army operation to dispose of decommissioned munitions. The incident resulted in the deaths of four soldiers and nine civilians, as confirmed by Brig. Gen. Wahyu Yudhayana, an army spokesperson. The injured were transported to Pameungpeuk Regional General Hospital for treatment.

The explosion occurred in a pit specifically designated for the destruction of detonators. The army stated that the primary disposal procedure, carried out in two separate ammunition pits, was conducted in line with protocol and completed without any issues.