In a shocking incident during Friday prayers at a mosque contained within a school complex in Jakarta, Indonesia, authorities say they found what appears to be explosive powder while investigating blasts that injured dozens of worshippers. The 17-year-old student from the adjacent school is now at the centre of a broad probe that includes forensic evidence, social-media records and family interviews.
Suspect Identified as Teen Student
Officials from the national police confirm the main suspect is a 17-year-old male student enrolled in the school next to the mosque. He underwent surgery for injuries sustained in the blasts and remains under medical care as investigators verify his role in the incident. While no fatalities have been reported so far, at least 50 – 55 people were wounded, many of them students.
Evidence Points to Deliberate Attack
During the crime scene examination, investigators discovered what they believe may be explosive powder, along with written material and other evidence suggesting the blasts were intentional. Authorities are reviewing social-media data and interviewing family members to piece together motive and planning. While the investigation continues, officials caution against prematurely calling the episode “terrorism”.
School Mosque Scene, Victims & Aftermath
The explosions occurred at the mosque inside a high-school complex in the Kelapa Gading district of North Jakarta during midday Friday prayers. Witnesses described sudden bangs and panic as worshippers fled. Many victims suffered burns and hearing injuries, with the largest concentration of wounded near the loudspeaker area. Authorities have mobilised trauma-support teams and reinforced security at educational and religious sites.