Explosion Rocks Medan Luxury Housing Complex, Gas Leak Suspected

A powerful explosion rocked the upscale Grand Polonia housing complex in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia, on Monday afternoon, causing panic among residents. The blast, which occurred around 3:30 PM local time, completely destroyed one house and damaged six others. Wiwin, a marble construction worker who was near the site, reported witnessing a flash of white light entering the house just before the explosion. He described a loud "boom" immediately following the flash, with debris and glass fragments flying towards his location. Wiwin sustained injuries from the shattered glass. While Wiwin could not confirm the exact cause, he stated that a bright light entered the building before the blast. He described the explosion's force as beyond expectation, causing widespread panic and immediate evacuation of those nearby. It is understood that at least four domestic workers were inside the house at the time of the explosion. Medan Police Chief Kombes Pol Jean Calvijn Simanjuntak stated that the cause of the explosion is under investigation. Initial findings suggest a possible leak from an underground gas pipeline. A specialized team using gas detectors confirmed the presence of gas at the scene. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the precise cause. This incident has raised concerns about infrastructure safety and has left the community shaken.