This action was taken in response to information received on September 10, 2025, regarding nine containers (out of a total of 14) that triggered warning alarms on the Radiation Portal Monitor (RPM) because their radiation count rates exceeded established thresholds. BAPETEN’s MEST conducted direct inspections of all containers suspected of radioactive contamination.

Upon inspection, all the containers exhibited radiation dose rates significantly higher, ranging from 6 to 800 times the background radiation levels. BAPETEN then conducted further analysis using radionuclide identification equipment, which revealed that the radiation exposure was caused by the presence of the radionuclide Cs-137 inside the containers.

To determine whether the Cs-137 was located inside the containers or existed as contamination on the outer walls, BAPETEN’s MEST performed wipe tests. The test results showed that the outer walls of the containers were free from radioactive contamination, confirming that the Cs-137 was located inside the containers.

Based on these inspection findings, BAPETEN recommended returning all the containers to their country of origin, as the presence of Cs-137 contamination within the containers had been confirmed. The Tanjung Priok Customs Office and the importers will soon process the return of all contaminated containers to their country of origin. [BHKK/Da/AQ/Translator: GP]