Gunpowder blast damages 50 houses

Gunpowder blast damages 50 houses

KENDAL, Central Java: About 50 kilograms of gunpowder stored
in a bamboo bush exploded in Karangdowo village on Sunday
afternoon, leaving 50 houses damaged.

Central Java Police chief Lt. Col. M. Ramlie said on Monday
that the gunpowder's owner, identified as Wasijan, 40, had
escaped along with his family.

"We're now tracking him down," Ramlie said.

The massive blast rocked the village and cracked houses,
leaving a sizable hole in the ground, measuring four square
meters. However, no fatalities or injured parties were reported
in the incident.

"His neighbors repeatedly warned him of the danger of
gunpowder," Ramli said. (har/edt)