Jakarta – An explosion rocked a mosque situated within a high school in Jakarta, Indonesia, during Friday prayers, injuring numerous people. The incident occurred at approximately 12:15 PM local time (05:15 GMT) in Kelapa Gading, a district of North Jakarta, sending ripples of shock through the nearby community.

According to Jakarta city police chief Asep Edi Suheri, 54 individuals received treatment at hospitals for injuries that range from mild to severe, including burns. Among the injured, three sustained serious wounds, while 17 reported minor injuries; numerous others were treated on-site and released.

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police promptly initiated an investigation, deploying a bomb disposal unit to scrutinize the high school vicinity. Security personnel secured the perimeter, with military forces stationed at the entrance. Initial findings included two objects resembling firearms at the scene. Imagery indicated one might be a submachine gun while the other resembled a pistol, marked with phrases like “14 words. For Agartha” and “Brenton Tarrant. Welcome to Hell,” drawing parallels to the Christchurch mosque attack from 2019.

However, a visiting government official later clarified that these firearms were identified as toy weapons, advising the public against jumping to conclusions regarding terrorism before thorough investigations conclude. Additionally, a dark green cartridge belt was discovered nearby.

Preliminary reports from a school student indicated that a homemade bomb could have been carried to the mosque by a pupil facing bullying, although this assertion remains unverified by authorities.

Indonesia, which hosts the largest Muslim population globally, is currently on heightened alert around public religious sites following this incident. Police continue to delve into the origins of the explosive device and assess potential motives behind the act.

Officials have called on the public to maintain composure while security and investigative units perform detailed checks and evaluations of the area to ensure safety for students and congregants alike.