Diary and internet history of teen who led to Jakarta mosque bombings

An explosion in early November hit worshipers during Friday prayers, injuring 96 people. Four of the seven homemade bombs exploded and three failed to explode. Police said the teen acted alone and followed instructions from YouTube to build the bomb. He purchased materials such as potassium chloride and nails through an online market but did not cause panic.

©Reuters

During the search, police found a notebook containing the words Reb’s diarywhich includes sketches of schools and mosques as well as the date of the attack (November 7). Friday prayers are chosen with the intention of causing as many victims as possible. In the diary, he also wrote about trauma, suicidal thoughts and a desire to harm others.

secluded existence

Relatives said the boy led a withdrawn life, especially after his parents divorced. He spent most of his time on his laptop and told his father that the materials he purchased were for cosplay. Police are currently investigating how he obtained the raw materials without anyone knowing.

An explosion occurred at a mosque inside the school during Friday prayers on November 7, and Jakarta Police Chief Asep Edi Suheri showed a gun as evidence at a press conference. ©Reuters

The suspect was injured in the suicide bomb attack and is currently receiving treatment in the hospital. Before he is formally charged, the probation service will decide whether he is fit to stand trial and whether he will be placed in the care of the state or his parents.