Daijiworld Media Network - Jakarta

Jakarta, Nov 7: Panic gripped Indonesia’s capital on Friday after a powerful explosion occurred near a high school, leaving dozens injured. Authorities have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation to determine the cause of the blast.

Jakarta police chief Asep Edi Suheri confirmed the incident, stating that the explosion took place “in the vicinity” of a school in the city. “The initial data we have received indicates that there are approximately 54 individuals affected,” he told reporters in a statement broadcast by Kompas TV.

“Some have minor injuries, some moderate, and some have already been discharged,” Asep added.

Police teams, including the city’s bomb disposal squad, rushed to the spot and began processing the scene to ascertain whether the explosion was accidental or deliberate. Authorities have also established help desks at two hospitals to assist families in locating injured victims.

“We are still investigating, as this incident just occurred,” Asep said, urging the public to stay calm and avoid spreading unverified information.

The blast has sparked concern among residents and prompted heightened security measures in nearby areas as officials continue to search for clues behind the cause of the explosion.