Pakistan gravely concerned over recurring incidents of theft, sale of nuclear materials in India: FO

Islamabad urges thorough investigation into persistent thefts of radioactive substances in the neighbouring country

Pakistan has voiced serious concerns following the arrest of yet another gang in India found in possession of highly radioactive and toxic Californium, valued at US$ 100 million.

The incident marks a troubling pattern of recurring thefts and illicit sales of nuclear and radioactive materials in India.

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.

“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.