A devastating explosion rocked a densely populated neighborhood in the Perikanan Complex, Jalan Walter Monginsidi, Fandoi, Biak Kota, Papua, on Sunday afternoon (May 31). The tragic incident has claimed the lives of five individuals, while search efforts continue for three others who remain missing.
Biak Numfor Police Chief AKBP Ari Trestiawan confirmed the death toll, stating that the authorities are currently prioritizing site security as the area remains volatile. “We have identified five deceased victims, and three people are still the subject of an ongoing search,” Ari told reporters.
In response to the danger posed by the blast, police have established a secure perimeter, installing police lines to keep the public at a safe distance. Authorities have issued a firm warning to local residents, urging them to stay clear of the crime scene for their own safety.
“We are securing the scene because it is not yet fully safe. We have established a secure radius and cordoned off the area to prevent any further casualties,” Ari explained during a live broadcast.
Preliminary investigations at the site have led to the discovery of mortar fragments, leading officials to suspect that the explosion was caused by unexploded ordnance—a grim legacy of World War II. During the war, Biak served as a strategic military base occupied by Japanese forces, becoming a fierce battleground in 1944 when Allied troops led by General Douglas MacArthur launched an offensive to reclaim the region for their subsequent push toward the Philippines.
To determine the precise cause of the blast and ensure the site is cleared of further threats, the police are coordinating with specialized units. “We have recovered mortar fragments from the scene. We are currently working with the Papua Police Bomb Disposal (Gegana) unit and the forensic laboratory team to conduct a thorough investigation and identify the exact cause of this incident,” Ari concluded.
Summary
An explosion in the Perikanan Complex, Biak Kota, Papua, has resulted in five fatalities, with three individuals reported missing. Police have secured the surrounding area to ensure public safety while search efforts continue for the remaining victims.
Preliminary investigations have uncovered mortar fragments at the site, leading authorities to suspect the blast was caused by unexploded ordnance from World War II. Specialized bomb disposal units are currently working to clear the scene and conduct a comprehensive forensic investigation into the incident.