Covert Operation Exposes Illegal Nuclear Material Deal
Georgian security forces have arrested three Chinese citizens accused of attempting to acquire uranium through an unauthorized sale. The country’s State Security Service said the arrests occurred in Tbilisi during a planned operation, after the suspects allegedly tried to purchase roughly two kilograms of radioactive material for about $400,000. The uranium was recovered by authorities and transferred to specialists for inspection and containment.
Officials Link Scheme to Cross-Border Trafficking Plan
Investigators believe the men intended to transport the uranium from Georgia into China, traveling through Russian territory. One suspect was reportedly in the country without legal permission, while the others are thought to have overseen the logistics from abroad. Searches of apartments in both Tbilisi and Batumi uncovered documents and devices that officials say were tied to the illicit operation.
Criminal Charges Filed Under Nuclear Safety Legislation
The three suspects have been charged with illegally possessing and attempting to traffic radioactive substances, crimes punishable by up to ten years in prison under Georgian law. Authorities said the arrests underscore the ongoing threat posed by nuclear smuggling networks and reaffirmed Georgia’s commitment to international efforts to prevent the circulation of dangerous materials.
