- FO Spokesperson highlights growing frequency of such incidents, saying similar thefts of Californium had been reported in 2021
- Reiterates call for a thorough investigation into these incidents, urges adequate measures be taken to prevent recurrence
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Tuesday expressed grave concern at the recurring incidents of theft and illicit sale of nuclear and other radioactive materials in India, especially in the backdrop of recent busting of yet another gang in India found in possession of highly radioactive and toxic Californium, valued at US$ 100 million.
In a statement on Tuesday, Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch highlighted the growing frequency of such incidents. Responding to questions about the recent arrest, Mumtaz noted that similar thefts of Californium had been reported in 2021.
She also mentioned that just last month, five individuals were apprehended in Dehradun with a radioactive device allegedly stolen from the Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC) in Mumbai.
She said three incidents of theft of Californium were also reported in 2021. Last month, five individuals with a radioactive device reportedly stolen from Bhabha Atomic Research Center were also found in Dehradun.
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said these recurring incidents call into question the measures taken by New Delhi for the safety and security of nuclear and other radioactive material.
Islamabad urges thorough investigation into persistent thefts of radioactive substances in the neighbouring country
“These repeated incidents cast serious doubt on the effectiveness of the measures taken by New Delhi to ensure the safety and security of nuclear and radioactive materials,” Mumtaz remarked. She further suggested that the ongoing occurrences hint at the existence of a black market for sensitive, dual-use materials within India.
The spokesperson called on the international community to demand a full and transparent disclosure from Indian authorities on how sealed Radioactive Source (SRS) materials like Californium ended up in the possession of unauthorized individuals.
“It is alarming that such sensitive materials are routinely falling into the wrong hands in India. Pakistan reiterates its call for a thorough investigation into these incidents and urges that adequate measures be taken to prevent their recurrence,” Mumtaz added.
