“We’ve spoken with the district head and coordinated with the provincial police. We will intensify enforcement against these unauthorized wells,” Blora Police Chief Adjunct Senior Commissioner Wawan Andi Susanto said on Monday.
A preliminary investigation into the incident is underway. Four witnesses have been questioned, although the well’s owner has not yet been summoned.
The district police are also working with the Central Java Provincial Police’s forensic laboratory, which is awaiting full containment of the fire before inspecting the site.
Blora District Head Arief Rohman expressed deep regret over the tragedy, which occurred just ahead of the planned legalization of resident-operated oil wells under Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Regulation No. 14 of 2025.
He emphasized that the explosion—which killed three residents and injured two others—should serve as a wake-up call for communities to prioritize safety and comply with regulations.
“The land may belong to residents, but the well itself is illegal. Operators must meet the required criteria. The site was located behind residential homes, so safety and security must be taken seriously,” Rohman said.
He urged residents interested in establishing oil wells to refrain from doing so without proper authorization.
“Apply for a permit first. Once approved, you can operate legally. This is essential for safety and regulatory compliance,” he added.
According to a Blora Police spokesperson, the fire broke out around 12:30 p.m. local time on Sunday, triggered by a blowout at the illegal well.
The blaze forced 50 families to evacuate to safer areas or stay with relatives.
Livestock—including six cows and three goats—were also relocated. Authorities reported one house was severely damaged and three others sustained moderate damage.
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Translator: Teguh Imam W/Gunawan, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
