Jakarta concert disrupted by suspected gas release

A concert in the Kota Tua area of West Jakarta was abruptly halted on Sunday night, September 13, after a pungent gas-like odor and powder caused respiratory distress among performers and attendees.

During the performance by the band Kotak, vocalist Tantri Syalindri reported experiencing coughing and shortness of breath. Some audience members reportedly fainted due to the substance. The incident occurred while the band was performing the song ‘Pelan-Pelan Saja’. Authorities noted that the substance appeared as a powder that caused eye irritation and breathing difficulties, rather than visible smoke.

Organizers and security personnel managed to detain a man suspected of releasing the substance. It is believed the individual intended to create chaos within the crowd to facilitate pickpocketing. The suspect has been taken to the Pinangsia Subsector Police Station for further investigation. The area was sterilized within 15 minutes of the incident, and organizers confirmed that affected attendees were sent home safely.