Police Analyze Samples from Biak Explosion Site; Six Dead, Three Missing

An explosion in Biak, Indonesia, on May 29, 2026, has resulted in the deaths of six people, with three others still missing. The Forensic Laboratory of the Papua Regional Police is currently analyzing samples from the blast site to determine the exact type of explosive material involved.

Authorities have not yet declared the explosion site on Jalan Wolter Monginsidi safe. Bomb disposal teams from the Gegana Mobile Brigade of the Papua Regional Police are continuing to sterilize the area, ensuring no residual explosives or hazardous materials remain that could pose further risk.

During the investigation, authorities discovered three mortars and 30 rounds of World War II ammunition near the explosion site. On June 1, 2026, a bomb disposal unit also found and neutralized two pineapple-type grenades. These findings suggest the possibility that the explosion may be linked to unexploded ordnance from the war era.

Meanwhile, a joint SAR team is actively searching coastal areas for the three missing individuals. Since June 2, 2026, body parts have been recovered and are being held at the Biak General Hospital for identification by the DVI Polda Papua team. The ongoing efforts aim to locate the missing persons and ensure the area is completely safe.