The State Security Service of Georgia [SSSG] thwarted a major transnational crime, preventing the potential development of illicit activities involving nuclear materials.

“Joint operation of the Counterintelligence and Special Operations Departments, led to the arrest of 2 persons in Batumi attempting to illegally sell and acquire uranium.

The suspects, 1 Georgian citizen and 1 foreign national, were detained during an attempt to illegally sell uranium for USD 3 million.

The confiscated nuclear material, identified as radioactive alpha and gamma radiation, was determined to be a component usable in the production of various explosive devices.

Its nature and dosage power posed a significant threat, capable of being used for terrorist attacks or other grave incidents with mass and fatal consequences.

The investigation underway under the Article 230, Part 1, of the Criminal Code of Georgia [article pertains to the illegal handling of nuclear materials and carries a penalty of 5 to 10 years of imprisonment]”, - says the SSSG.