Radiation material intercepted at Beitbridge border

The Radiation Protection Authority of Zimbabwe (RPAZ) recently intercepted a shipment of radioactive material at the Beitbridge Border Post. The material, transported from South Africa in a South African-registered Toyota Quantum owned by Teichmann, was detected during routine checks due to high radiation readings.

RPAZ spokesperson Mr. Shingirai Huni stated that the shipment included stationery and two boxes labeled "Radioactive Material" containing Troxler density gauges.

Mr. Huni explained that Zimbabwean regulations require Troxler density gauges to be transported in specific containers meeting safety standards and secured in a loading box to prevent accidents. Vehicles carrying such materials must display visible radioactive material signs, and passengers are prohibited from being near the loading box. The intercepted gauges contained radioactive substances, specifically Caesium-137 and Americium 241 Beryllium, and were en route from South Africa to Mozambique.

Upon detecting a radiation dose exceeding 20 micro Sieverts per hour, the RPAZ inspector immediately alerted the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra), the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP). These stakeholders requested the necessary licenses for transporting the radioactive materials and found that the documentation was inadequate, and the handling of the material did not meet safety standards.

To prevent any harm to the public, the vehicle was escorted out of the border and detained at a local quarantine facility. The National Nuclear Security Committee has been notified and dispatched to Beitbridge for further management of the situation.