Radioactive device goes missing

-Source-BBC-

Authorities say the radioactive substance inside the radiography device could spread dangerous contamination if dismantled improperly.

There are also fears it could be used as part of a weapon - a so-called dirty bomb - if it fell into the wrong hands.

Authorities have confirmed the device is missing but have insisted that "everything is under control".

The missing object is used in industrial radiography - it belonged to a firm that does tests, calibrations and inspections for oil and gas companies and other heavy industry firms.

The 23kg (50lbs) large metal tube with a carrying handle had reportedly been used to spot cracks in metal.

It contains the radioactive isotope iridium-192 which can cause radiation exposure or be used as a weapon if combined with a conventional explosive device.

Whether or not the missing iridium can indeed be used for a so-called dirty bomb depends on how much of it was inside the device.

Possibly fatal

According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, iridium-192 can cause permanent injury if handled for minutes to hours, and could be fatal if in close proximity for hours or days . Read more