ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA — The tragic fire that engulfed the seven-story Terra Drone building in Cempaka Baru, Kemayoran, Central Jakarta on December 9, 2025, has claimed at least 22 lives, according to the latest update from authorities as of 5:00 PM WIB.
Central Jakarta Police Chief Kombes Pol. Susatyo Purnomo Condro confirmed that the victims include 7 men and 15 women, all of whom have been transported to RS Polri Kramat Jati for identification.
“By 5:00 PM, the total number of fatalities has reached 22 — seven males and fifteen females,” he told reporters on Tuesday evening.
Fire Sparked by Suspected Drone Battery Explosion
The fire is believed to have been triggered by a battery explosion on the first floor, which rapidly intensified and sent thick smoke into the upper floors. Several witnesses reported hearing a loud blast moments before flames spread to the second and third floors.
The incident occurred around 12:43 PM, prompting a massive emergency response. A total of 29 fire trucks and 101 firefighters were deployed from multiple fire stations across Central Jakarta.
Dramatic Rooftop Evacuations
As thick smoke filled the building, dozens of employees fled to the rooftop, where firefighters used emergency ladders to rescue them one by one. Some survivors suffered from severe smoke inhalation and were immediately treated by medical teams on site.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as employees ran upstairs seeking breathable air while flames and smoke cut off escape routes on lower floors.
Injured Firefighters and Ongoing Operations
Police reported that several officers were injured during the evacuation effort, including cuts from broken glass and debris.
“Let us pray for the recovery of all injured personnel and strength for the families of the victims,” Susatyo said.
As of early evening, firefighters are still conducting cooling operations and a floor-by-floor sweep to ensure no additional victims remain trapped inside the building.
The fire also caused severe traffic congestion around Jalan Letjen Suprapto, with road closures stretching toward Kwitang as emergency units continued to operate in the area.
Authorities Continue Investigation
Police and fire investigators are now working to determine the exact cause of the explosion and assess whether safety protocol violations may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. (AT Network)
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