3 arrested inside Y-12 nuclear weapons plant


Recommended Posts

The National Nuclear Security Administration today said three people were detained inside the Y-12 nuclear weapons plant after they reportedly entered the high-security installation and "defaced at building." The incident occurred at about 4:30 a.m., according to the NNSA.

"An investigation is underway and is being led by the Department of Energy Inspector General," the statement said. "The individuals will be transported to an offsite facility for arrest and processing under Federal trespassing charges."

The NNSA said as part of a "secure response," actions were taken to assure that all nuclear material at Y-12 is safe and secure.

The Oak Ridge plant is the home to the nation's supply of bomb-grade uranium. The actual amount of material is classiied, but most of it is stored in a new $549 million storehouse known as the Highly Enriched Uranium Materials Facility.

"There is no indication that this incident is anything more than a protest related action," NNSA spokesman Steven Wyatt said, indicating there was no suggestion of terrorism or threatening activity.

Wyatt declined to specify which building was defaced. One unconfirmed report indicated there was spray painting on a building.

Y-12 has been the scene of many protests over the years, most of them peaceful, although there have been numerous arrests for trespassing -- especially during the annual "Hiroshima Day" protest on Aug. 6, the anniversary of the first atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima, Japan. Y-12 enriced the uranium used in that bomb.

Source

Link to comment
Share on other sites

This topic is now closed to further replies.