A tragic incident unfolded on December 24 in eastern Indonesia resulting in the loss of at least 12 lives and leaving 39 individuals injured following an explosion at a nickel-processing plant funded by Chinese investment, according to an official from the industrial park.
The blast occurred at approximately 5:30 am local time at PT Indonesia Tsingshan Stainless Steel’s facility within the Morowali Industrial Park situated in Central Sulawesi province, as confirmed by a spokesperson representing the complex.
“Presently, there are 51 reported victims. Among them, 12 individuals lost their lives in the incident. The remaining 39 individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving medical attention,” stated spokesperson Dedy Kurniawan.
The statement noted that among the casualties were seven Indonesians and five foreign workers, with no specific nationalities disclosed.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the explosion took place during repair work on a furnace, triggering the ignition of a flammable liquid. The subsequent blast led to the explosion of nearby oxygen tanks, according to the official.
The statement also confirmed that the fire resulting from the explosion was successfully put out on the morning of December 24.
Expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy, the company managing the industrial park conveyed condolences and informed that the identified victims’ remains had been repatriated.
The island, known for its significant nickel production crucial for electric vehicle batteries and stainless steel, has witnessed increased investment from Beijing. However, this surge in investment has sparked concerns regarding working conditions at these facilities.
Earlier in January, a riot erupted during a protest over safety conditions and wages at a nickel smelting plant within the same industrial park, resulting in the deaths of two workers, including a Chinese national.
