Credited from: CHANNELNEWSASIA
Indonesian police discovered possible explosive powder while investigating a series of explosions that occurred during Friday prayers at a mosque in Jakarta. The attacks injured nearly 100 people, with a 17-year-old student identified as the suspected perpetrator, who is currently recovering after surgery, confirmed police chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo in a press briefing following his hospital visits to victims. "Several pieces of supporting evidence were found," he stated, indicating that the investigation is ongoing to ascertain the detailed circumstances of the incident, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.
Following the explosions, a total of 96 individuals were reported wounded, with officials stating that 29 remain hospitalized, including at least two in intensive care. Witnesses described a scene of confusion, initially believing the blasts were related to sound equipment, only to later realize an explosion originated beneath a prayer mat. The ongoing investigation is also looking into the suspect's background, including examining family connections and social media for further evidence, according to South China Morning Post.
Authorities have urged the public to refrain from making premature conclusions about the nature of the attacks, with concerns regarding a potential terrorist motive being addressed. Deputy coordinating minister for politics and security, Lodewijk Freidrich Paulus, highlighted the importance of awaiting comprehensive investigative results before drawing any final assertions. This caution is essential as the police work diligently to clarify the situation surrounding the mosque blasts, as noted by Reuters, Channel News Asia, and South China Morning Post.