WWII Bomb Explodes in Biak as Papua Police Deploy Bomb Disposal Team

The Brimob unit of Papua Police has deployed a bomb disposal team to investigate the explosion of a WWII-era bomb in Biak Numfor Regency. The device detonated on Sunday 31 May, resulting in five fatalities and property damage. The 16-member team, led by AKP Hanasbey, was dispatched to Biak on Monday 1 June.

Dansat Brimob Polda Papua Kombes Adarma Sinaga stated that upon arrival, the team proceeded to the crime scene at a fisheries complex to check for any remaining wartime ordnance. He added that the team was equipped according to standard operating procedures. According to reports, the explosion caused five deaths and severe damage to four houses.

Biak Numfor Police Chief AKBP Ari Trestiawan confirmed the area has been secured with police lines and residents have been advised not to approach the site due to fears of additional unexploded devices. He stated that authorities are awaiting the bomb disposal team’s assessment to confirm the area’s safety before conducting a full crime scene investigation.