Death Toll Rises to Six in Suspected WWII-Era Bomb Explosion in Biak Numfor, Papua

Kuala Lumpur — The death toll from a powerful explosion believed to have been caused by a World War II bomb remnant in Biak Numfor, Papua, has risen to six after another victim died from her injuries while receiving hospital treatment.

The latest fatality has been identified as Ny Mina Puadi, 51, who succumbed to rib fractures and internal bleeding after being struck by a falling pole and motorcycle during the blast. She passed away while undergoing treatment, according to Kombes Pol Cahyo Sukarnito, Head of Public Relations at Papua Regional Police (Polda Papua).

“Another victim has died — Ny Mina Puadi, 51 years old. She suffered broken ribs and bleeding in the spleen after being hit by a pole and an outboard motor,” Cahyo said.

Explosion Rocks Fishing Complex

The explosion occurred on Sunday, May 31, 2026, around 3:00 PM WIT in Kampung Yenures, Distrik Biak Kota, within the fisheries complex area. The blast caused significant structural damage and scattered debris across the site.

Initial reports on Monday confirmed five deaths. With Ny Mina Puadi’s passing, the toll has now reached six. Authorities are still searching for three other missing individuals, while 19 people sustained minor injuries.

Active Grenade Found at Scene

On Monday, the Bomb Disposal Unit (Jibom) from Gegana Brimob Polda Papua discovered an active “pineapple” grenade at the explosion site. The device was safely destroyed around 6:00 PM WIT. Further examination of explosive materials is scheduled to continue.

Kapolres Biak Numfor, AKBP Ari Trestiawan, confirmed that the bomb disposal team only arrived on Monday afternoon, limiting the scope of the initial search. Police have not yet fully processed the crime scene as they await complete sterilization of the area.

Residents have been strongly advised to avoid the location until authorities declare it safe and free of unexploded ordnance.

Lingering Danger from WWII Remnants

Incidents involving unexploded ordnance from World War II are not uncommon in parts of Papua, where intense fighting took place between Allied and Japanese forces in the 1940s. Many such devices remain buried or hidden decades later, posing ongoing risks to local communities.

Authorities continue to urge the public to report any suspicious objects and to avoid touching or moving potential explosive remnants.

The investigation into the cause and full extent of the damage remains ongoing as bomb technicians work to secure the site.