The Radiation Protection Authority (RPA) has concluded a successful enforcement operation that led to the seizure of illegally held nuclear density gauges on the Copperbelt and North-Western provinces.
The operation, prompted by rising concerns over unauthorized possession and use of radioactive equipment, was carried out in accordance with the Ionizing Radiation Protection Act No. 19 of 2011, to identify and secure unlicensed nuclear sources that pose serious safety and environmental risks.
Authority Senior Public Relations Officer, Loveness Milimo, says in Manyama of North western province, a company was found using a fraudulent radiation license while offering nuclear density gauging services in which the device was impounded on 4th July 2025.
“In Kitwe District, two nuclear gauges were intercepted on 3rd July 2025, both were in use without the required authorization,” said Ms. Milimo in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
She said that a fourth device was seized in Mufulira District, also operating outside legal and regulatory approval, adding that all four gauges have since been safely transported and secured at the ZCCM-IH interim storage facility in Kalulushi, pending further regulatory and legal action.
Ms. Milimo emphasized that these findings highlight the urgent need for strict compliance with radiation safety laws, specifically, Section 21 (1) of the Ionizing Radiation Protection Act, which requires any individual or institution intending to import, use, or possess radioactive material to obtain a valid licence from the Authority.
She said that non-compliance with radiation safety regulations puts workers, the general public, and the environment at significant risk.
Angel Kasabo
