At least 13 people, including four military personnel, were killed in Indonesia’s West Java province on Monday after an explosion occurred during the disposal of expired ammunition, according to the Indonesian Armed Forces.
The blast took place in the village of Sagara, located in the Garut region. Military officials confirmed that the deceased were part of a team involved in the safe destruction of outdated ammunition stockpiles.
The explosion happened unexpectedly, claiming multiple lives and raising questions about safety procedures.
Major General Kristomei Sianturi, head of the Indonesian military’s media office, stated that the victims’ bodies were transported to Pameungpeuk Regional General Hospital.
He added that the area has been secured and evacuated to prevent further incidents, as a precautionary measure in case of secondary explosions.
The cause of the explosion remains unknown. In a televised statement from Jakarta, Sianturi confirmed that a full investigation is underway to determine what led to the deadly blast.
Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak also confirmed the incident and emphasized that the circumstances surrounding the explosion are being thoroughly examined by military authorities.
Indonesia’s armed forces frequently carry out disposal operations for outdated ammunition and explosives, especially in remote or rural areas. However, safety concerns have grown in recent years, prompting calls for stricter protocols and improved training for disposal teams.