Suspected WWII Bomb Kills 5 in Papua, 3 Missing

A suspected WWII-era bomb exploded in Biak Numfor Regency, Papua. Five people are reported dead and three others remain missing due to the explosion.

The blast occurred at the Fisheries Complex on Walter Mongonsidi Street, Yenures Village, Biak Kota District, on Sunday (31 May) around 14:45 WIT, damaging several houses.

“The bomb is suspected to be a WWII relic. Investigation is ongoing,” said Biak Numfor Regency Police Chief AKBP Ari Trestiawan to detikcom on Sunday (31 May 2026).

Ari stated that his team is still conducting identification at the site. Preliminary data shows police have recovered five bodies.

“Five bodies have been found so far, with three still missing,” he added.

Brimob personnel have been deployed to the scene, and the crime scene (TKP) has been cordoned off as it has not yet been declared safe.

“We urge the public not to approach the crime scene for now as conditions remain unsafe to prevent further explosions,” Ari said.