KAI Comments on Train Accident in Bekasi Elevated to Investigation

The investigation and all processes must be fully supported for the future safety of the railway system,” said KAI Vice President of Corporate Communication, Anne Purba, to reporters on Saturday (2/5/2026). The collision between the Argo Bromo Anggrek train and the KRL at Bekasi Timur Station occurred on Monday (17/5) night. Sixteen people died in the incident. The Head of Public Relations of Metro Jaya Police, Commissioner Budi Hermanto, stated that the case status was elevated from inquiry to investigation after investigators collected several pieces of initial evidence. Several witnesses have also been questioned. “This case has been elevated to the investigation stage. We have conducted scene processing, witness examinations, and evidence collection including CCTV,” said Budi to reporters at Monas, Central Jakarta, on Thursday (30/4). Investigators have already examined 24 witnesses to delve deeper into the case. Police are also still examining seven other individuals who have important roles in train operations, from the train movement control centre staff (Pusdalops), PPKA, signal officers, KRL driver, Argo Bromo Anggrek train driver, assistant driver, to movement controllers. “Examinations are still ongoing in Manggarai. A total of 24 witnesses have been examined, and today there are an additional seven people being questioned,” he said. Furthermore, police are collaborating with the National Police Headquarters Forensic Laboratory Centre (Puslabfor) team to investigate the cause of the accident. One aspect being explored is the possibility of technical disruptions, including the influence of the electrical system or signals at the incident location. On the other hand, the online taxi driver involved in the incident still holds witness status. Based on examination results, the driver with initials RRP is known to have started working as a driver since 25 April 2026, or just a few days before the incident. “From the statements of the driver or online taxi driver who has been questioned, the individual started working since 25 April 2026. So, just a few days before the incident. And underwent one day of training,” said Budi.