The Gopalganj Superintendent of Police, Swarn Prabhat, confirmed that a special police team, acting on a tip-off, apprehended the suspects. The accused, identified as Chhote Lal Prasad, Chandan Gupta, and Chandan Ram, were in possession of the radioactive material along with four mobile phones. They were allegedly trying to sell the Californium, a substance known for its high value in nuclear research and medicine.
The suspects presented a laboratory report, purportedly from IIT-Madras, claiming to verify the substance's authenticity. However, this document is under scrutiny as part of the ongoing investigation. The Department of Atomic Energy has been informed and is conducting a thorough examination of the material to determine its origins and potential risks.
Authorities are treating the case with utmost seriousness given the hazardous nature of the substance and the high stakes involved in its illegal trade. The investigation continues as officials work to uncover the full extent of the smuggling network.