Oxygen Cylinder Explosion in North Jakarta Leaves One Dead

An oxygen cylinder explosion occurred at the premises of PT Sinergi Berkat Gasindo on Jalan Pegangsaan Dua, Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta. The blast took place on Wednesday (7 October) afternoon, killing Slamat Nur Alimin (19) and leaving Tedi Irawan (47) with injuries.

“The incident happened during the process of filling oxygen cylinders of around 48 to 50 kilograms from a main tank with a capacity of 10 tonnes,” said Kelapa Gading Police Chief Comr. Girindra Wardana, as quoted by Antara on Thursday (8 October).

According to witnesses at the scene, the powerful explosion occurred shortly after the filling process had begun.

Slamat Nur Alimin had reportedly stepped back once after closing the valve of an oxygen cylinder when the blast occurred.

Within moments, a loud explosion echoed across the area and thick brown smoke billowed around the factory site.

Slamat Nur Alimin was killed at the scene by serious injuries across his body, including broken ribs and severe head and internal organ injuries.

Meanwhile, Tedi Irawan sustained a torn wound to his left shoulder and swelling in his right leg. He is currently receiving medical treatment at RS Gading Pluit hospital.

The explosion also caused material damage. Metal fragments were hurled out and pierced the windscreen of a pickup truck with registration plate B 9364 TAF.

In addition, the shockwave damaged the roof of a neighbouring home belonging to Muniroh in RT 05/RW 02, Kelapa Gading.

Police from Kelapa Gading Sector Police moved quickly to cordon off the area, secure evidence and deploy an identification team to determine the exact cause of the explosion.

“We have visited the site, secured the crime scene, recorded the victims and taken statements from witnesses. The case is now being fully handled by Kelapa Gading Sector Police,” he said.