Mortar Shell Explosion in West Bandung Kills Three Civilians

Three residents died following the explosion of an 81mm mortar shell in Ciparang Hamlet, Cipatat Village, Cipatat Sub-district, West Bandung Regency, on Wednesday (8/7).

The victims have been identified as Ade (21), Suhri (51) and Rodiana (40).

Cipatat Police Chief Commissioner DMS Andriani Sapin said that, according to witnesses near the scene, an explosion was heard at the home of victim Ade.

When residents went to check, all three victims were found lying on the ground.

“When the victims were being evacuated, there were still mortar shells remaining,” Andriani said when contacted.

One victim was successfully evacuated but could not be saved whilst under treatment at hospital. The other two died at the scene.

Investigations by residents revealed that the three victims had frequently been collecting spent shells from TNI military exercises not far from the victims’ residential area.

“The type of ammunition found at the scene was a tank shell (tampela),” she said.

The TNI has yet to provide any statement or explanation regarding the incident.