24 People Poisoned Allegedly Due to Gas Leak at Milk Factory in East Jakarta

A total of 24 people have been reported suffering from poisoning, allegedly due to a gas leak from a milk factory in the Pasar Rebo area, East Jakarta, on Monday (28/9).

“The victims experienced shortness of breath due to inhaling the leaking gas,” said AKP Made Budi, Head of Public Relations for the East Jakarta Metro Police, in a statement on Tuesday (24/9).

According to witness accounts, the incident occurred around 2:15 PM WIB. At that time, a witness inside their home heard the sound of an explosion.

Made noted that the witness initially thought the sound was a tyre bursting. However, shortly thereafter, the witness detected the smell of ammonia.

“Shortly after, the witness smelled a pungent ammonia odour, prompting them and other residents to rush out of their houses,” said Made.

“The gas leak is suspected to have occurred in the Celer condenser unit belonging to PT Indolakto. A team from PT Indolakto has since repaired the leak,” he added.

As a result of the incident, 20 victims were rushed to the Pasar Rebo District Community Health Centre (Puskesmas), one victim to Harapan Bunda Hospital, and another to Tugu Ibu Hospital.

“Some of the victims have already been discharged to their respective homes,” said Made.