Tragic Explosion in West Java: 13 Killed During Expired Ammunition Disposal

Indonesian Military Officers and Civilians Among Victims of Deadly Blast in Garut District.

Jakarta - A devastating explosion during the disposal of expired ammunition in Sagara village, Garut district, West Java, has claimed the lives of 13 people, including four members of the Indonesian Defence Forces (TNI). The incident, which occurred on Monday, has prompted an immediate investigation and widespread mourning.

Major General Kristomei Sianturi, Chief of the TNI's Information Office, confirmed the fatalities. The bodies of the victims have been transported to the Pameungpeuk Regional General Hospital for post-mortem examinations and pre-funeral arrangements. Sianturi also stated that the military is working diligently to secure and clear the site, mitigating the risk of further explosions.

Army Chief of Staff, General Maruli Simanjuntak, also acknowledged the tragedy, emphasizing the ongoing investigation to ascertain the cause of the explosion. According to the military, the blast took place at approximately 9:30 a.m. local time at a site owned by the Garut District Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), which had been regularly used for the disposal of expired ammunition.

The expired ammunition originated from Ammunition Depot No. 3 of the Indonesian Army Equipment Centre (Puspalad). The four TNI officers who lost their lives in the accident were identified as Colonel Antonius Hermawan, Major Anda Rohanda, Second Corporal Eri Dwi Priambodo, and First Private Aprio Setiawan. The remaining victims were civilians: Agus bin Kasmin, Pian bin Obur, Iyus Ibing bin Inon, Anwar bin Inon, Iyus Rizal bin Saepuloh, Toto, Dadang, Rustiawan, and Endang.

The TNI is committed to providing further details regarding the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event as the investigation progresses.