Deadly Office Fire in Jakarta Kills at Least 22- Investigation Underway

A catastrophic fire tore through a seven‑storey office building in the Kemayoran district of central Jakarta on Tuesday, resulting in at least 22 confirmed fatalities, including a pregnant woman.

The blaze erupted around midday, reportedly beginning on the first floor in a storage and testing area linked to a drone‑services company.

Within minutes, the fire spread upward, sending thick black smoke throughout the building and triggering panic among workers and nearby residents.

Emergency response teams — including 29 fire trucks and over 100 firefighters — were mobilized rapidly. Some workers were evacuated via fire ladders from upper floors, and a number climbed to the rooftop seeking rescue. Despite these efforts, many trapped inside suffered severe smoke inhalation.

Authorities found 22 bodies, seven men and fifteen women, during their search of the charred remains; the victims have been taken to a police hospital for identification. Dozens of survivors are being treated for breathing difficulties and trauma.

Fire chiefs and investigators have launched a formal inquiry into the origin of the blaze. Initial indications suggest that a malfunctioning lithium battery used for drone operations may have ignited the fire, though forensic teams caution that the exact cause remains to be confirmed.

In the meantime, the building is being cooled and inspected to ensure no further hazards, and all access remains cordoned off as authorities collect evidence.

Local officials and urban‑safety experts have called the incident a stark reminder of inadequate fire‑safety measures in many commercial buildings.

They emphasize the need for strict enforcement of safety regulations, including proper ventilation, functional emergency exits, fire‑safe storage of batteries, and regular inspections to prevent future tragedies.

For the families of the deceased and the displaced workers now recovering, the devastation marks a grim turn in what was a routine workday.

Source: Associated Press; Reuters; The Straits Times; The Jakarta Post; ABC News