Jakarta. The Indonesian government suspects that imported scrap metal may be the source of radioactive contamination recently detected in the Cikande Industrial Zone in Banten Province. The investigation follows the US rejection of Indonesian shrimp exports found to contain traces of the radioactive isotope Cesium-137.

The Environment Ministry said it is coordinating with the Trade Ministry to tighten import controls on iron and steel commodities after preliminary findings pointed to foreign scrap metal as the likely cause.

“We have recommended that the Trade Minister tighten imports of iron and steel,” said Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq. “We will not recommend any new imports of scrap metal until radiation monitoring systems, such as Radiation Portal Monitors, are fully operational.”

Authorities have launched a joint probe involving the National Police, who are tracing the origin of the radioactive material to identify those responsible.

Decontamination Operation
On Saturday, the ministry conducted a full-scale decontamination operation across the Cikande Industrial Zone, seizing at least 20 drums, 17 jumbo bags, and other contaminated materials for secure disposal using nuclear safety procedures. Trucks used to transport radioactive materials were fitted with lead plates to shield both the environment and drivers from exposure.

“The decontamination process is supervised by the Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency (BAPETEN) to ensure worker safety and prevent excessive radiation exposure,” said Rasio Ridho Sani, Deputy Minister for Pollution and Environmental Damage Control.

The cleanup is being carried out under the direct supervision of the ministry’s Pollution Control Directorate, with police checkpoints established at all entry and exit points of the industrial complex.

“Every vehicle entering or leaving the area is being inspected to ensure no radioactive traces leave the site,” Rasio added.

The Health Ministry has screened 1,562 workers in and around the Cikande area within a five-kilometer radius. Those showing signs of radiation exposure have been treated with Prussian blue, a medical antidote that helps remove Cesium-137 from the body.

This is not Indonesia’s first encounter with radioactive contamination. In 2019, a similar case involving Cesium-137 was discovered in Serpong, South Tangerang, near the National Nuclear Energy Agency (BATAN) research complex. That incident -- linked to improper disposal of radioactive gauges -- prompted nationwide audits of radiation safety procedures.