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SOURCE: AFI

In a startling incident at a Russian airport, security officials have seized a bottle containing radioactive Thorium-232, with radiation levels measured at fifteen times the permissible limit. The substance was found in the luggage of a tourist who claimed innocence, stating that the material was simply “volcanic beach sand” collected during her visit to India.

The incident unfolded at Moscow’s Domodedovo Airport, where routine security checks have become more stringent following global security concerns. As part of these measures, the bottle was detected during a scan that triggered a radiation alert. Upon further examination, it was confirmed that the contents were indeed Thorium-232, a naturally occurring radioactive element which, in this instance, posed a significant health risk due to its concentration.

The tourist, whose identity has not been disclosed, maintained that she had unknowingly collected the sand from a beach in India, unaware of its radioactive nature. Thorium-232 can be found in small amounts in monazite sands, which are known to occur in certain regions of India, particularly along its coastal areas. However, the concentration of Thorium in the bottle was alarmingly high, suggesting either a lack of awareness or an accidental collection from a highly contaminated area.

This seizure raises concerns about the inadvertent transport of radioactive materials, which can have serious implications for public health and security. Thorium-232, while not fissile, is part of a decay chain that produces other radioactive isotopes, some of which can be harmful if not handled correctly. The incident underscores the need for enhanced education on the risks associated with collecting natural materials from unknown sources, especially in areas known for their mineral content.

Russian authorities, through their customs and security units, have taken immediate action to isolate and secure the material. The bottle has been safely contained, and further investigations are underway to determine how such a concentrated amount of Thorium-232 ended up in a tourist’s luggage. Discussions are also likely to take place with Indian authorities to understand the source and ensure that similar incidents are prevented in the future.

The environmental impact of such high levels of Thorium-232 in a public setting like an airport is a concern for both immediate and long-term health risks. While the general public is not at immediate risk due to the swift action by security, this case highlights the importance of rigorous screening processes at international borders and the potential for accidental exposure to radioactive substances.

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