Indonesia: IS claims May 13-14 Surabaya suicide bombing attacks /update 1

Event

The Islamic State (IS), via the Amaq News Agency, claimed responsibility for a series of bombings perpetrated in Surabaya and Sidoarjo on Sunday, May 13, and Monday, May 14. On Sunday morning (local time), IS militants detonated explosive devices near three churches in Surabaya: the Santa Maria Tak Bercela Church, the Gereja Kristen Indonesia Church and the Pentecost Church Central. On Sunday afternoon, an attack was reported near the Wonocolo apartment complex in Sidoarjo. On Monday morning, IS militants attacked the Surabaya Police Headquarters. At least 12 people were killed in the bombings, with 55 others suffering injuries. Reports indicate that at least 13 attackers died during the attacks.

On May 14, security officials increased the terror alert to the highest level, "siaga 1", in Jakarta, East Java, and Riau Islands. Additional militant attacks are possible in Indonesia in the near-term. Anticipate a heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions in the abovementioned areas in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Indonesia has been on high alert for months due to the extant terrorist threat. Islamic State (IS)-inspired groups and lone-wolf assailants have carried out a series of mostly low-level attacks over the past few years. There are fears that such entities could step up attacks following the return of hundreds of Indonesians who had gone to Syria to fight with IS, following the group's recent territorial losses in the region.

Advice

Individuals in Indonesia are advised to monitor developments to the situation, report any suspicious objects or behavior, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.

According to various Western intelligence security assessments, the threat of terrorism poses a significant security risk to individuals in Indonesia. Terrorist groups continue to plan attacks and have the capacity and intent to carry out such attacks throughout the country. Past attacks have included suicide bombings and shootings targeting public and crowded places.