Explosion of expired munitions in Indonesia kills 13

ISTANBUL

A total of 13 people were killed Monday in an explosion of expired munitions in West Java, Indonesia, The Jakarta Globe reported, citing the army.

The explosion took place at approximately 9.30 am (0230GMT) local time during a scheduled army operation to dispose of decommissioned munitions.

Four soldiers and nine civilians lost their lives in the incident, as confirmed by Brig. Gen. Wahyu Yudhayana, an army spokesperson.

The injured were transported to Pameungpeuk Regional General Hospital.

The explosion took place in a pit that had been designated for the destruction of detonators.

According to the army, the primary disposal procedure – carried out in two separate ammunition pits – was done in line with protocol and completed without any issues.

An investigation has been launched into the incident.