NBI seizes P680 million worth of uranium; 3 suspects held

MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested three people allegedly involved in the illegal sale of depleted uranium valued at P680 million.

At a press conference yesterday, NBI Director Jaime Santiago said the suspects were apprehended in separate operations in Pasay, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu and Dagupan, which yielded 100 kilos of uranium.

The arrests were made in collaboration with the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) and Armed Forces of the Philippines, according to Santiago.

Uranium is a hazardous element that poses serious health risks, including cancer when inhaled, Santiago said.

He said uranium is also used in manufacturing armor-piercing ammunition, raising concern about its potential acquisition by terrorist groups.

The NBI said the contraband was being marketed to foreign buyers.

“We are working with our international counterparts to trace the smuggling route of the uranium into the Philippines,” Santiago said.

Probers said they are tracing the suspects’ previous transactions and the extent of their operation.

Authorities recovered the depleted uranium in powdered and metal forms from various storage locations.

The PNRI has been tapped to secure the hazardous material.

According to PNRI experts, uranium can be used to create bombs and other weapons, making it a security threat.

Charges of violating Republic Act 5207 or the Atomic Energy Regulatory and Liability Law, which carries a fine of P10,000 and penalty of up to 10 years in prison, are being readied against the suspects.

Two of the suspects posted bail, the NBI said.