Indonesia Explosion: Jakarta school blast injures over 50; Bomb squad examining site

Jakarta: An explosion near a high school in Indonesia's capital, Jakarta today on Friday caused panic. Approximately 54 people were injured in the blast. Local authorities reported that many of the injured suffered minor injuries, while others were in moderate condition. The explosion caused panic in the area, and police immediately cordoned off the area. The cause of the explosion is not yet known. Helicopter carrying 1 Indian among 8 passengers goes missing in Indonesia; Search continues Police Chief Provides Information Jakarta Police Chief Asep Edi Suheri, briefing the media, said that the explosion occurred near a high school in the city. He said, "According to preliminary information, approximately 54 people were affected. Some of them suffered minor injuries, some moderate injuries, and some were discharged from the hospital after treatment." The police chief said that relief and rescue operations were immediately launched, according to a statement broadcast on Kompas TV. He added that a bomb squad has been deployed to the scene and is investigating the cause of the explosion. Investigation Into Cause Of Blast Continues Police have completely sealed off the area to preserve evidence. Authorities have not yet confirmed any terrorist plot or accidental explosion. Bomb disposal teams and forensic experts are at the scene and examining the debris to determine whether the blast was caused by an explosive device, a gas cylinder, or a chemical reaction. Authorities have also set up help desks at two major hospitals so that relatives of injured people can obtain information about their loved ones. Security Increased Following Incident Following the explosion, Jakarta police have tightened security throughout the area. Police patrols have been increased around schools and other public places. A government spokesperson stated, "Since the incident occurred recently, preliminary information is being gathered. All agencies are working together to determine the true cause of the blast." Indonesia: Ferry boat sinks in Bali strait; Four dead, several missing Appeal From Local Administration The local administration has appealed to the public to ignore rumors and rely only on information from official sources. Meanwhile, Indonesia's Home Ministry has stated that the situation is under control and all the injured are receiving proper medical treatment. It is unclear whether any organization is behind the blast, but police have stated that a concrete statement will be made only after a preliminary investigation.