Police uncover self-assembled explosives from online instructions as 32 victims remain hospitalized
Authorities have confirmed that the explosive devices used in the SMAN 72 Jakarta bombing were self-made by a student who learned to assemble them from the internet. The incident, which occurred during Friday prayers on November 7, 2025, left 96 people injured, with 32 still hospitalized as investigators work to uncover the full motive behind the attack.
Explosives Assembled from Internet Instructions
Densus 88 Antiterror revealed that the explosives were independently assembled by the suspect after learning bomb-making methods online. According to spokesperson AKBP Mayndra Eka Wardhana, the suspect prepared seven explosive devices, four of which were detonated, while three remained unused. “The devices were self-assembled, and the suspect accessed the internet to learn how to make them,” Mayndra said on Tuesday, November 11.
Remote-Controlled Detonations
Preliminary findings show that several bombs were remotely detonated, while others used different triggering methods that police have yet to disclose. Densus 88 and the Polda Metro Jaya crime lab have confiscated several materials from the suspect’s residence, including documents, books, and sketches potentially related to the devices. These items are being examined to determine their relevance to the explosion.
32 Victims Still Under Treatment
Polda Metro Jaya spokesperson Commissioner Budi Hermawan reported that as of Monday, November 10, thirty-two victims were still hospitalized. Thirteen remain at RS Islam Cempaka Putih, seventeen at RS Yarsi, and one at RS Polri Kramat Jati. The latter is the suspected perpetrator, who is now conscious and under close police supervision for medical and investigative reasons. “Once his condition improves, investigators will take his full statement,” Budi said.
Sequence of the Explosion
The explosion took place around 12:30 p.m. during Friday prayers in the school’s mosque located within the Kodamar complex in Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta. Witnesses reported two blasts, first in the prayer hall on the third floor, followed by another near the school canteen. Panic quickly spread among students and teachers as smoke filled the building, resulting in dozens of injuries.
Ongoing Investigation and Motive Search
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo confirmed that the suspected student is now in custody. He stated that investigators are analyzing the suspect’s background, social environment, and mental condition. “We are studying the motive behind the act and how the suspect obtained and assembled the explosives. Once the findings are complete, we will disclose them publicly,” Listyo said during a press briefing at the Presidential Palace.
Concerns Over Online Radicalization
The revelation that the suspect learned bomb-making online raises concerns about youth exposure to extremist content on the internet. Experts have long warned about the ease of accessing dangerous materials through social media and online forums. Authorities are now expected to tighten monitoring of digital spaces and enhance school-level awareness campaigns to prevent similar incidents.
The SMAN 72 explosion highlights the urgent need for stricter cyber monitoring and early detection of radical tendencies among students. As investigations continue, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by online extremism and the importance of collaboration between schools, parents, and law enforcement in safeguarding Indonesia’s youth.
Sources: Tirto ID (2025) , Tempo (2025)
Keywords: SMAN 72 Explosion, Jakarta School Bombing, Densus 88 Investigation, Student Radicalization, Online Bomb Making, Indonesia Security
