On Friday, Uttarakhand police apprehended five individuals in Dehradun after receiving a tip-off about suspicious activity involving potential radioactive material. The incident unfolded when the Rajpur police station acted on information suggesting the presence of individuals discussing the procurement and sale of a radioactive device at a flat in the city.
Upon arriving at the scene, law enforcement discovered a device labeled with information indicating it was a ‘Radiography Camera Manufactured By Board of Radiation And Isotope Technology, Government Of India, Department Of Atomic Energy BARC/BRIT Vashi Complex Sector 20 Vashi Navi Mumbai’.
In addition, a black box said to contain radioactive powder was found, with the suspects warning of potential radiation exposure if opened.
Identity and Origins of the Suspects
The individuals present at the scene were identified as Sumit Pathak from Agra, Tabrez Alam from Saharanpur, Sarvar Hussain from New Delhi, Zaid Ali from Bhopal, and Abhishek Jain also from Bhopal. All suspects have been taken into custody for further investigation.
During interrogation, Tabrez Alam revealed he had purchased the device nearly a year ago from an acquaintance named Rashid alias Sameer in Saharanpur. Discussions regarding the device’s sale and purchase had led Alam to Gurgaon, where he met with Sumit Pathak.
Response Measures and Scientific Examination
Concerned about potential radiation hazards, the police sealed the room containing the equipment and summoned the State Disaster Response Force. Specialized equipment confirmed the presence of a device likely containing radioactive substances, prompting involvement from the Radiation Emergency Response Team at Narora Atomic Power Station.
Initial examinations indicated the device contained other chemicals but no radioactive material. Further testing by experts from the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre in Mumbai has been recommended for conclusive results.
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Devices similar to the one seized are typically used in medical and industrial settings, and manufactured at institutions like the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre in Mumbai. They serve purposes ranging from medical diagnostics to inspecting pipelines for leaks.
The investigation has revealed potential links to other individuals in Delhi and Faridabad, prompting authorities to expand their inquiry. Detailed reports from the Radiation Emergency Response Team and further analysis by experts will provide clarity on the nature and safety of the confiscated device.
Authorities remain vigilant amid concerns over potential radiation exposure and are taking necessary precautions to ensure public safety while pursuing the case further.
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