About 2.5 tons of uranium missing in Libya: UN nuclear watchdog

VIENNA

Approximately 2.5 tons of natural uranium stored in a site in Libya has gone missing, UN nuclear inspectors said.

Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), told the organization’s member states that inspectors reported that 10 drums containing uranium ore concentrate have gone missing.

“The loss of knowledge about the present location of nuclear material may present a radiological risk as well as nuclear security concerns," according to a statement from the IAEA chief.

It said that the situation should be handled immediately and an investigation should be initiated.

The IAEA is ready to provide the necessary assistance in this regard for the implementation of international nuclear safety standards and nuclear safety guidance.

*Writing by Gokhan Ergocun from Istanbul