Pelalawan gas station fire triggered by modified vehicle explosion

A fire broke out at a Pertamina gas station in Bandar Petalangan, Pelalawan Regency, Riau, on Friday, August 14, 2026. The incident occurred around 11:00 WIB after a Toyota Rush minibus finished refueling with Pertalite.

Preliminary investigations suggest the fire was triggered by an explosion within the vehicle's cabin. Authorities noted that the minibus had been modified, showing strong indications of illegal fuel hoarding or siphoning practices. The flames quickly spread to the vehicle, the station building, and fuel pump dispensers. While no fatalities were reported, the driver fled the scene immediately after the explosion and remains missing.

In response, Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Sumbagut temporarily suspended operations at the station to prioritize safety and conduct a thorough inspection of facilities. Emergency procedures were implemented, including the use of fire extinguishers by station staff before the local fire department arrived to fully extinguish the blaze. Pertamina is currently reviewing CCTV footage and coordinating with local authorities to determine the exact cause of the incident.