In brief
Surabaya, 30 minutes ago—a video of an explosion that tore a sneaker shop apart went viral on CCTV. Police confirm the blast probably stemmed from a gas leak, leaving five people hospitalised and 41 surrounding buildings damaged. No explosive devices were found, and emergency services are investigating the leak’s source. The incident shines a stark light on building safety standards in the city’s bustling San Antonio district.
CCTV footage captured the moment a dense cloud of flame erupted from a sneaker shop in Surabaya’s San Antonio area, sending shockwaves through the neighbourhood. The incident, reported just minutes ago, has left five people hospitalised and a cluster of 41 nearby buildings badly damaged.
Surabaya police officials say the explosion was “strongly suspected” to be caused by a gas leak, and stress that no suspicious substances or explosive devices were found at the site. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities prioritising the safety of residents in the heavily trafficked district.
Witnesses described the blast as sudden and loud, describing how the shop’s roof collapsed and shattered glass hurled across the street. Emergency crews responded within minutes, coordinating debris removal and securing the surrounding area. Five injured were transported to a local hospital, where doctors are monitoring their conditions as the investigation proceeds.
The incident has prompted calls for tighter safety regulations around commercial gas lines in Surabaya. City officials have pledged to review building infrastructure in the San Antonio neighbourhood and to reinforce guidelines for gas usage in retail spaces.
Residents and visitors are advised to avoid the immediate area while police work to assess the extent of the damage and determine the source of the leak. Updates will be provided as new information comes to light.
