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Cancer-causing Indian kitchenware detected at port
A container load of stainless steel kitchenware imported from India was found to be contaminated with radioactive material, Atomic Energy Authority Chairman Ranjith Wijewardene said.
He said radiation detection equipment at the Colombo port had revealed that the 40-foot container was emitting radiation.
“Several samples were tested at the AEA’s laboratory on Friday (14) and it was found that the items contained radioactive material cobalt 60 used in radiotherapy (cancer treatment),” he said.
The shipment is stored in a special storage at the Ports Authority.“These utensils like bowls are used in households and food outlets. Exposure to such materials for a long period could result in cancer,” Dr. Wijewardene warned.
He said the Customs had been ordered to detain the container and ensure that the stocks were not released to the market while inquiries were being made to identify the Indian company which manufactured and distributed the items.
The AEA chief said the Indian and International Atomic Agencies would be informed and the consignment sent back to India.
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