Police appeal for help in finding radioactive Iridium
PR dla Zagranicy
Roberto Galea
16.07.2015 11:42
A receptacle containing radioactive Iridium has been stolen in southern Poland, and police have appealed to the public to help find it.
A container similar to the one which was stolen. Photo: Katowice Police
A worker at a heating plant in the city of Zabrze allegedly accidentally left the container behind while carrying out inspection work at the plant. When the employee responsible for the unit returned, the container was no longer there.
As long as it is closed, the unit does not pose a threat to life and health, but could be dangerous if it is opened.
The device – called GammaMat – contains radioactive Iridium and is used to perform radiographic tests. The device weighs about 16 kg and is 20 cm long, 15 cm high and 10 cm wide.
Iridium was discovered in 1803, and has an atomic number of 77. It stands between Os¬mium and Platinum. The metal is one of the rarest elements on the earth’s crust.
All persons who have information which could lead to finding the device are asked to call the Police Headquarters in Zabrze. (rg)
Source: PAP