WWII bomb explosion under stilt house in Biak Numfor kills five

A World War II-era bomb, which killed five residents in Biak Numfor Regency, Papua, is believed to have detonated beneath a stilt house. Three other victims are still being searched for.

“Initial field reports indicate the explosion occurred beneath one of the stilt houses in the area,” said Papua Police Chief of Public Relations, Kombes Cahyo Sukarnito, according to detikSulsel on Sunday, 31 May 2026.

Cahyo has not yet detailed the sequence of events from the bomb’s discovery to detonation. However, the explosion caused panic due to its intense blast.

“According to witness accounts at the scene, the explosion occurred suddenly with a loud blast, drawing the attention of nearby residents who then attempted to assist the victims,” he explained.

Five fatalities from the blast have been evacuated. Three bodies were taken to Biak Regional Hospital (RSUD), while another was transported to Biak Naval Hospital (RSAL).

“Meanwhile, three other victims are still being searched for by a joint team conducting ongoing sweeps around the incident site,” Cahyo said.

Preliminary assessments indicate six houses sustained severe damage. Authorities are conducting further evaluations of the blast’s impact.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the victims’ families. Our current priority is victim care, evacuation efforts, and securing the incident site,” he added.