A series of explosions rocked a high school mosque in Jakarta during Friday prayers, leaving at least 54 people wounded. Authorities have identified a 17-year-old student as the primary suspect, who was among those injured and is currently undergoing surgery.
The blasts occurred around midday at the state high school SMA 72, located within a naval compound in North Jakarta’s Kelapa Gading district. Witnesses reported hearing multiple loud explosions from both inside and outside the mosque as the sermon was beginning, causing panic among worshippers who fled as gray smoke filled the building.
Law enforcement officials confirmed recovering a modified toy submachine gun from the scene bearing markings associated with white supremacist ideology. The weapon contained references to the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings, though investigators emphasize they are still determining the exact motive behind the attack.
Police officials stated that most victims sustained burns and injuries from flying debris, with many standing near the mosque’s loudspeaker system suffering hearing damage. Approximately 33 students remain hospitalized with various injuries from blast fragments.
While initial reports suggested bullying as a possible motivation, authorities caution against premature conclusions about the nature of the incident. The national police chief emphasized that investigators are conducting a thorough examination of the suspect’s background and the circumstances leading to the attack.
The Jakarta police spokesperson confirmed that security has been stabilized throughout the capital and urged citizens to remain calm. Authorities have initiated trauma counseling services for affected students and teachers as the investigation continues.
