MEDAN, El Sky News – A devastating fire decimated a large portion of the PT Garuda Mas Perkasa factory—the manufacturer of the iconic Swallow brand sandals—on Jalan Komodor Laut Yos Sudarso, Medan Deli, on Tuesday night (Jan 27). While the blaze caused significant structural damage, authorities have confirmed there were no fatalities in the incident.
The Outbreak
The fire reportedly began at approximately 9:40 PM WIB. Eyewitnesses described a rapid escalation as thick black smoke billowed from the production wing, followed by several loud explosions. Due to the high concentration of flammable materials, including rubber and industrial chemicals, the flames quickly spread across the facility, engulfing nearly 90% of the complex.
Emergency Response
The Medan Fire and Rescue Department deployed dozens of fire engines to the scene. Due to the intensity of the heat, the North Sumatra Police Mobile Brigade (Brimob) also dispatched Water Cannon units to assist in the containment efforts.
“The primary challenge was the fuel source. Since the factory stores massive amounts of processed rubber, the fire was extremely stubborn,” stated a local fire official at the scene.
Current Investigation and Impact
Preliminary reports suggest the fire originated in the chemical storage room (locally known as the “medicine room”). However, the North Sumatra Regional Police are still conducting a forensic investigation to determine if the spark was caused by an electrical short circuit or other technical failures.
While financial losses are estimated to be in the billions of rupiah, the company confirmed that all employees on the night shift were successfully evacuated.
