North jakarta: Fifty-five people, including students and teachers, sustained injuries following multiple explosions inside a school mosque in Indonesia's capital during Friday prayers, according to local media.
According to Anadolu Agency, the explosions took place at North Jakarta's State Senior High School 72 around 12.30 pm (0530GMT), as reported by the Jakarta Globe. Most of the victims suffered minor injuries, primarily from glass fragments and the shockwaves of the blast. A bomb squad conducted a detailed inspection of the site post-incident.
Authorities are yet to determine the cause of the explosions. At the scene, a long-barreled firearm and a pistol were discovered, along with inscriptions, such as the name "Brenton Tarrant," the Australian white supremacist involved in the 2019 Christchurch attack. Other inscriptions included "Welcome to Hell," "For Agartha," the year "1189," referencing the Third Crusade, and "Alexandre Bissonnette," the 2017 Quebec City mosque shooter.
The Jakarta Globe also reported the discovery of suspicious objects near the site, resembling components of a homemade explosive device, a remote control, and airsoft and revolver-type firearms. Police officials stated that forensic and bomb-disposal experts would thoroughly examine all evidence as investigations continue.
Mayndra Eka Wardhana, spokesperson for the police's Anti-Terror Detachment 88, indicated that an elite anti-terror unit has been deployed to ascertain whether the explosions were a result of intentional use of explosive materials. "Our team is assessing whether any terrorist motive or network was involved," he commented.
Indonesia National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo revealed that one suspect has been identified in connection with the explosions. "One of the two individuals undergoing surgery is suspected to be the perpetrator. We are still gathering information to identify the motive behind the explosions," he stated, adding that the suspect, a student, has not been questioned due to severe injuries.
General Prabowo confirmed that the victim count ranges between 50 and 60, with a medical post set up for treatment. Many have already been discharged, and no fatalities have been reported.