Uranium found at Heathrow sparks terror investigation

COUNTER-TERRORISM police are investigating after a small amount of uranium was detected in a package at Heathrow airport.

Border Force officers identified the parcel coming into the UK during a routine screening on Dec 29.

There are strict rules around handling of the nuclear fuel, which can be used in so-called “dirty bombs”, designed to scatter radioactive material.

The Met said its Counter Terrorism Command was contacted in December after a “very small amount of contaminated material” was identified.

Commander Richard Smith said there was no risk to the public over the incident.

“I want to reassure the public that the amount of contaminated material was extremely small and has been assessed by experts as posing no threat to the public,” he said.

“Although our investigation remains ongoing, from our inquiries so far, it does not appear to be linked to any direct threat. As the public would expect, however, we will continue to follow up on all available lines of inquiry to ensure this is definitely the case.

“However, it does highlight the excellent capability we and our partners have in place to monitor our ports and borders in order to keep the public safe from any potential threats to their safety and security that might be coming into the UK.”

The material has been identified as being contaminated with uranium, the Met said. No arrests have been made and officers continue to work with partner agencies to investigate fully and ensure there is no risk to the public, it added.

The identities of any passengers or companies associated with the package have not been confirmed. The intended destination of the parcel is unknown.

The Home Office said it would not comment on the investigation while it was still ongoing.

‘The amount of contaminated material was extremely small and posed no threat to the public’