Army Responds to Garut Ammunition Explosion Findings
GARUT – May 12, 2025 – The Indonesian Army has addressed the komnas HAM findings following the deadly Garut ammunition explosion that claimed thirteen lives. The incident occurred in Cibalong District, West Java, during an ammunition disposal operation. this tragic event, which killed four soldiers and nine civilians, prompted an immediate investigation by the National Human Rights Commission. Further details on the Army’s response is forthcoming.
Army responds to Komnas HAM Findings on Garut Ammunition Explosion
The Indonesian Army has responded to findings by komnas HAM (National Human Rights Commission) regarding an explosion that occurred during the disposal of unserviceable ammunition in Cibalong District, Garut Regency, West Java, on May 12, 2025. The incident resulted in the deaths of 13 people, including four soldiers and nine civilians.
Army’s commitment to Openness
Brig. Gen. Wahyu Yudhayana,head of the Army Facts Office,stated that the Army welcomes input from all stakeholders. He emphasized the Army’s commitment to clarity and continuous betterment.
We reiterate the commitment of the Army to always be open and respect every constructive input from various parties in the incident.
Brig. Gen. Wahyu Yudhayana,Head of the Army Information Office
According to Yudhayana,all suggestions,findings,responses,and recommendations will be considered during the evaluation and decision-making process.
Did you know? Komnas HAM is an autonomous institution established to investigate human rights violations in Indonesia. Their findings often lead to policy changes and legal reforms.
Komnas HAM’s Findings
Komnas HAM’s investigation revealed that the ammunition disposal activity was conducted by TNI-AD Puspalad (army Ordnance center), involving 21 civilians hired as daily wage laborers.
On the events of May 12,2025,21 people were employed to help the process of destruction of the TNI APPIKI ammunition with an average wage of Rp150 thousand per day.
Uli Parulian Sihombing, Member of Komnas HAM
The explosion, which occurred around 9:30 a.m. local time, was allegedly triggered by residual explosives from detonators being piled up after the ammunition destruction process.
Pro Tip: When handling explosive materials, always follow established safety protocols and ensure proper training for all personnel involved. Regular safety audits can help prevent accidents.
Debate Over Detonator Disposal
Prior to the explosion,a disagreement arose between the commander of Gapusmus (Central Ammunition Depot) and a civilian worker coordinator,Rustiawan,regarding the disposal method of the residual detonators.
The standard procedure involved submerging the detonator remnants in the sea to expedite their neutralization. Though, on that particular day, the decision was made to bury them using a mixture of urea.
Details of the Explosion
At the time of the incident,the victims were in the process of lowering a drum containing the detonator remnants into a hole. Some individuals were inside the hole, while others were positioned around it, handling detonator materials. The drum suddenly exploded during this process.
Community Involvement
Komnas HAM also discovered that local residents routinely collected explosive remnants after each stage of ammunition destruction.
Every finished stage of destruction or blasting ammunition, found the fact of a collection of residents who took the rest of the explosion from the ammunition…Residents also frequently enough bring home former ammunition coffin to their respective homes to use versatile.
Uli Parulian Sihombing, Member of Komnas HAM
The nine civilian fatalities included eight daily wage laborers and one visitor.
