NNSA Removes High-Risk Material from Brazil, Strengthening American and Global Security

The operation reflects a priority of the Trump Administration by preventing dangerous materials from falling into the wrong hands before they can be used to threaten American lives. By securing vulnerable radioactive materials overseas, NNSA helps prevent emerging threats from reaching the United States.

"Our agency's marching orders are clear: eliminate high-consequence risks before bad actors can exploit them," said Matthew Napoli, Deputy Administrator for NNSA's Office of Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation. "Taking this material off the board is a major win that demonstrates American capability in action - getting the job done, securing critical materials, and ensuring our homeland remains safe and protected."

The operation targeted a cesium-137 source previously used in a blood irradiator at the Amazonas Hematology and Hemotherapy Hospital Foundation (HEMOAM). While cesium-137 is used for medical applications like treating blood for transfusions, the highly radioactive source could be stolen and used to create a "dirty bomb."