While hundreds of protestors surrounded the El Dabaa nuclear power plant in Egypt last week, someone managed to sneak in and steal some of its radioactive material. One safe containing radioactive material was seized while another was broken open and some of its contents removed, according to Khaleej Times.

The government has alerted security officials to the theft and a search party is underway.

Located on the Mediterranean Sea, the Dabaa nuclear plant still under construction was the scene of violent protests as 500 Egyptians showed up to demand its relocation.

The protestors, who exchanged gunfire with soldiers, claim that the plant development project has usurped their land. Dozens of people were wounded and employees have refused to return to the plant until security is re-established.

The 1,000 megawatt El Dabaa nuclear power station is expected to cost US$1.5bn – if locals allow it to proceed – and it is the first such plant in the country.

Another reason to abandon nuclear power plants in our troubled land and vote for solar instead? We think so.

:: Khaleej Times

image via Radio Netherlands

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Can Nuclear Power Ever be Justified for Environmental Reasons?

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