ISLAMABAD: More than 50 worshippers were wounded when an explosion tore through a mosque in North Jakarta’s Kelapa Gading district during Friday prayers, sparking a major counterterrorism investigation. Police recovered bomb fragments and a suspected explosive vest from the scene, indicating the blast was a deliberate attack.
The blast took place inside a mosque situated within a school complex in the Kelapa Gading area of North Jakarta, shocking one of the world’s largest Muslim-majority nations during its weekly congregational prayer.
Police said early evidence suggested a deliberate attack after forensic teams recovered explosive fragments, a body vest, and ammunition from the scene. “We are examining all materials found and treating the incident as an intentional act until proven otherwise,” Jakarta police chief Asep Edi Suheri told reporters.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as the explosion tore through the prayer hall shortly after the Friday sermon began. “There was a flash, a thunderous sound, and people started shouting and rushing to the exits,” said one worshipper quoted by local broadcaster Kompas TV.
Emergency teams arrived within minutes, evacuating victims to nearby hospitals. Medical officials reported multiple cases of burns, fractures, and shocks. Hospital authorities later confirmed that most patients were stable, although several remained in intensive care.
The mosque’s main structure remained standing, sparing further casualties. Engineers from the city’s public works department have begun assessing the integrity of the building.
Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, Hadi Tjahjanto, condemned the blast as “a cowardly act against innocent worshippers” and pledged a thorough investigation. He said the government would ensure “no space for those who seek to undermine peace and unity through terror.”
Indonesia’s largest Islamic organisations have appealed for calm and solidarity, warning citizens against speculation until official findings are released. Religious leaders have urged the faithful to “continue prayers without fear” and reject any attempt to sow communal division.
Authorities are expected to release forensic results soon. The explosion represents one of the most significant attacks on a place of worship in Indonesia in recent years, reviving national debate over security preparedness and interfaith tolerance.
