Assessment of radioactive material in imported air freight: Findings and security implications

Ensuring the effective control of the movement of nuclear material and other radioactive material in air freight is essential in the strengthening a states’ nuclear security regime. Thus, the study assessed the presence of radioactive material in imported air freight processed through the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in Ghana. In the absence of Radiation Portal Monitors (RPMs), a Radioisotope Identification Device (RIID) was deployed to screen 897 air freight containers. Radioisotopes were detected in 198 containers with measured averaged equivalent dose rates ranging from 0.059±0.005 µSv/h to 0.427±0.013 µSv/h. The obliviousness of Frontline Officers (FLOs) about the presence of radioisotopes in the commodities highlights potential gaps in cargo documentation and radiation security awareness, suggesting the possibility of unauthorized movement of radioactive material. The findings underscore the need to upgrade detection infrastructure, enhance frontline officers’ capabilities and improve inter-agency coordination to support an effective nuclear security regime.