A residential fire in Tanjung Barat, South Jakarta, has claimed the life of Haerul Saleh, a member of the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK). The incident occurred on Friday, May 8, 2026, at approximately 07:53 WIB, leaving the victim deceased in his own home.
Emergency Response and Containment
The fire was first noticed by residents who observed thick black smoke billowing from the roof of the residence. According to Asril Rizal, the Head of the South Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service (Gulkarmat), reports from the local neighborhood head (RT) indicated that smoke was emerging from the third floor.
A significant emergency operation was launched to contain the blaze, with 12 fire engines and 48 personnel deployed to the scene. Firefighting efforts began at 08:07 WIB and were officially declared complete by 08:49 WIB.
Details of the Fatality
A house guard named Arpen reported that Haerul Saleh was heard screaming “fire” from the upper floors of the building. Arpen stated, “Bapak teriak, teriak kebakaran,” and immediately alerted neighbors and contacted the fire department.
Despite efforts to ensure the building was empty, Arpen noted that Haerul remained inside during the fire. Investigators later determined that the fire originated on the fourth floor, specifically within the victim’s work room, where his body was subsequently discovered.
Following the recovery of the body, Haerul Saleh was transported to the nearby Pasar Minggu Hospital, as confirmed by AKP Joko Adi, the Head of Public Relations for the South Jakarta Police.
Investigation into the Cause
Preliminary assessments suggest the fire may have been triggered by flammable chemical liquids. Asril Rizal noted that the blaze is suspected to have originated from remnants of thinner used during house renovations.
The South Jakarta Police conducted a crime scene investigation (olah TKP) on the same day. The operation was led by South Jakarta Police Chief Kombes I Putu Yuni Setiawan, supported by the Inafis team and the Puslabfor Mabes Polri.
Officers utilized specialized equipment and protective gear to examine the site. AKP Joko Adi stated that the joint investigation was necessary to determine the exact cause of the fire.
Potential Next Steps
Based on the ongoing investigation, police may coordinate further with the Puslabfor Mabes Polri to analyze chemical residues found at the scene. This could lead to a formal determination regarding the storage of renovation materials. The findings from the crime scene investigation may be used to finalize the official report on the cause of death.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the victim of the house fire?
The victim was Haerul Saleh, a member of the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK).
Where exactly did the fire start?
The fire originated on the fourth floor of the house, specifically in the victim’s work room.
What is the suspected cause of the blaze?
It is suspected that the fire was caused by flammable chemical liquids, specifically remnants of thinner from house renovations.
How can homeowners better ensure the safe disposal of hazardous chemicals during home renovations?
