Garut, Indonesia – A devastating explosion occurred at an ammunition destruction site in Garut Regency on May 12, 2025, resulting in the deaths of 13 people, including both military personnel and civilians.
The incident took place in Cibalong Subdistrict, precisely at the blasting site in Sagara Village, where unfit-for-use ammunition was being destroyed.
According to local authorities, the explosion took place at approximately 09:30 WIB on Monday, causing widespread shock and grief.
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The explosion killed four members of the Indonesian Army (TNI) who were part of the destruction team and nine civilians who were nearby.
Dianavia Faizal, the Head of Cibalong Sub-District, confirmed the tragic loss of life. “It was a sudden and catastrophic explosion. We are all deeply saddened by this incident,” he said.
Chronology of the Explosion
Brigadier General Wahyu Yudhayana, the Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Army (TNI), provided further details during a press conference later that day.
He explained that the destruction of unfit ammunition had begun earlier that morning with two wells prepared for the disposal process. “After the security team entered their respective posts and the area was deemed safe, the destruction process proceeded,” he stated, as reported by Antara.
The initial detonation of ammunition in the two prepared wells was carried out without incident.
However, as the team prepared a third hole for the disposal of detonators used in the earlier detonation, an unexpected explosion occurred.
“When the team arranged the detonators in the hole, a sudden explosion took place, leading to the deaths of 13 people,” Brigadier General Yudhayana added.
Despite thorough checks and safety procedures being implemented before the operation, the detonator explosion was unforeseen, leading to the tragic loss of life.
“Personnel and the location were inspected thoroughly, and everything was cleared as safe before the activity commenced,” he concluded.
Victims Identified in the Garut Explosion
The victims have been identified as members of the military and civilians in the area. The Indonesian National Army (TNI) Information Centre, led by Major General Kristomei Sianturi, provided the following list of victims:
- Colonel Cpl Antonius Hermawan ST MM (Head of Warehouse of Gugus 3 Puspalad)
- Major Cpl Anda Rohanda (Head of Min Gub Gakkum Gugus 3 Puspalad)
- Kopda Eri Priyambodo (Member of Gugus 3 Puspalad)
- Pratu April Setyawan (Member of Gugus 3 Puspalad)
- Agus bin Kasmin
- Ipang bin Obur
- Anwar bin Inon
- Iyus Ibin bin Inon
- Iyus Rizal bin Saefulloh
- Totok Bambang Jawan
- Endang
Authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion, and a full report is expected once the investigation is concluded.
