Gas explosion, short circuit cause fires in Jakarta

JAKARTA: One person was killed in a shop-house used to store gas canisters that collapsed after an explosion and subsequent fire, in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta.

Siti, the wife of gas agent Arianto, died in the fire, while three others suffered from burns, including Arianto and their son Suyanto, liputan6.com reported.

Some 15 firetrucks were deployed to the scene. According to witnesses, the house had previously caught fire two years ago, but was saved by neighbors.

Duren Sawit Police are currently investigating the case.

In Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, meanwhile, a fire parked by an electrical short circuit gutted 15 homes, liputan6.com reported. No casualties were reported.

The fire started from one house in the dense residential area, and was fanned by strong winds.

At least 20 fire trucks were deployed to Kemayoran to put out the blaze. - JP