Explosions Shake High School Mosque During Friday Prayers

Jakarta, Indonesia – Multiple explosions shook a mosque at SMA 27, a high school located within a navy compound in Jakarta’s northern Kelapa Gading neighborhood, on Friday, injuring at least 55 people, mostly students. The blasts occurred around midday during Friday prayers, just as the sermon began.

Witnesses reported hearing at least two loud detonations from inside and near the mosque, prompting students and faculty to flee in panic. Gray smoke filled the mosque as those inside scrambled for safety.

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Casualties and Injuries

Most of the victims sustained injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to burns caused by glass shards and debris. Hospital authorities confirmed that 20 students remain hospitalized, with three suffering serious burns, while others were treated and discharged.

Videos circulating on social media showed students in uniform running across the school grounds, covering their ears to shield themselves from the blasts. Some victims were carried on stretchers to waiting vehicles for transport to hospitals.

Shocked families gathered at Yarsi and Cempaka Putih hospitals, seeking information about their children. Relatives reported injuries from nails and sharp fragments embedded in hands, feet, and heads.

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Investigation Underway

Jakarta Police Chief Asep Edi Suheri said the cause of the explosions was not immediately known but appeared to originate near the mosque’s loudspeaker. Authorities deployed an anti-bomb squad to the scene, which found toy rifles and a toy gun, though it is unclear if these items were connected to the blasts.

“Police are still investigating the scene to determine the cause,” Chief Suheri said. “We urge the public not to speculate before investigations are completed. The authorities will convey results to the public once confirmed.”

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Historical Context: Indonesia and Terrorism

Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation, has a history of militant attacks, including the infamous 2002 Bali bombings by al-Qaida that killed 202 people, mostly tourists. Since then, most attacks have been smaller, targeting government facilities, security forces, or foreigners.

In December 2022, a recently released convicted militant carried out a suicide bombing at a police station in West Java, killing one officer and wounding 11 others.

Authorities have credited recent years with a “zero attack phenomenon,” highlighting Indonesia’s relatively stable security environment since 2023, despite sporadic incidents.

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Authorities Call for Calm

Police emphasized the need for patience as the investigation continues, urging residents and media to avoid speculation about the nature of the explosions. Security personnel remain stationed at the school and surrounding areas while officials gather evidence.

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Conclusion

The Jakarta high school mosque explosions have left dozens injured and shaken the local community. As investigations continue, authorities aim to determine the cause of the blasts while ensuring the safety of students and staff. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges of maintaining school safety and public security in urban Indonesia.