01.06.2026 11:31
In a fishing village in Indonesia's Papua region, an explosion of ordnance believed to be from World War II killed 5 people and injured 19. Authorities stated the blast may have been caused by an old bomb or mortar shell. Three people were reported missing after the incident, and search, rescue, and identification efforts continue in the area.
An explosion in a fishing village in Indonesia's Papua region has killed 5 people and injured 19. Officials said the explosion may have been caused by World War II-era ammunition. Search efforts for missing persons are ongoing in the area.
TERRIFYING EXPLOSION IN FISHING VILLAGE
The explosion occurred in a fishing village located in Indonesia's Papua region. According to initial findings, 5 people lost their lives and 19 were injured in the incident.
Officials reported that the explosion caused significant damage in the area, and many people were taken to nearby health centers.
"MAY BE WORLD WAR II-ERA AMMUNITION"
Papua Police Spokesperson Cahyo Sukarnito stated in an explanation regarding the source of the explosion that the ammunition could date back to the World War II era.
Sukarnito said, "It is assessed that the source of the explosion is most likely a bomb or mortar shell left over from World War II."
THREE PEOPLE STILL MISSING
Officials announced that three people were missing after the explosion. While search and rescue operations continue in the area, it has been reported that some human limbs have been found and identification efforts are ongoing.
Sukarnito stated that more detailed information would be shared after the victims are found and the investigation is completed.
A SIMILAR TRAGEDY OCCURRED LAST YEAR
Indonesia was shaken by an ammunition-related explosion last year as well. In West Java province, an explosion of ammunition intended for disposal resulted in the deaths of 13 people, including nine civilians.