Bomb disposal and forensics teams investigate explosion at Jember mosque
Jember, East Java — The bomb disposal team (Jibom) along with the forensic laboratory team (Labfor) of the East Java Regional Police (Polda Jatim) conducted an investigation at the scene of the explosion that occurred at Masjid Raya Pesona in Pesona Raya Regency residential area in Patrang District, Jember Regency, on Tuesday, several hours after the incident took place on Monday (16 March) evening.
The bomb disposal team together with the forensic laboratory team conducted the scene investigation under tight security by the Mobile Brigade of the East Java Regional Police from Tuesday early morning, and as of 08:30 WIB had not yet completed their work.
“The scene investigation is still ongoing, and the East Java Regional Police will provide details later,” said Senior Criminal Investigation Officer at Jember Police Station AKP Angga Riatma at Pesona Raya Regency in Jember.
According to field observations, the East Java Regional Police team conducted the scene investigation at the mosque explosion location, which was situated near the male ablution area, with several corners examined in detail and carefully.
Several items located near the explosion site were also examined, and officers inspected the damage caused by the explosion, including the mosque ceiling, roof structure, and unused cabinets.
The Police Chief of Jember AKBP Bobby A. Condroputra and officials from the East Java Regional Police were also seen entering the mosque to monitor the scene investigation process conducted by the combined team.
The chairman of Masjid Raya Pesona’s management committee, Muhammad Fadil, was also present inside the mosque to assist if needed when supporting the forensic laboratory and bomb disposal teams of the East Java Regional Police in conducting the scene investigation.
The explosion resulted in no fatalities but caused damage to the mosque’s roof section and caused panic among worshippers performing tarawih prayers and residents of the residential area.
One worshipper was reportedly taken to the emergency unit at RSUD dr Soebandi hospital due to suspected hearing impairment following the fairly loud explosion.