Radiation detected in St. Ingbert flat: police seal apartment, probe second site

What was found

Police in St. Ingbert, Saarland, launched a large-scale operation after discovering radioactive minerals in a residential apartment. The material is described as naturally occurring rock with natural radioactivity, possibly contaminated with heavy metals. According to the Saarland state police, mechanical processing of such rock can release both heavy metals and radioactive particles, creating dust that poses a health risk upon direct unprotected contact. The exact type and quantity of the minerals remain unclear, with authorities citing investigative tactics for withholding details.

“Nach ersten Ermittlungen soll es sich um in der Natur vorkommendes Gesteinsmaterial handeln, das über eine natürliche Radioaktivität verfügt und mit weiteren Schwermetallen verunreinigt sein kann.”

Police response

The operation involved fire brigades, radiation protection authorities, and CBRN units (specialist teams for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear hazards). The street in front of the apartment building was completely closed, and the city of St. Ingbert advised residents to avoid the area. Saarland interior minister Reinhold Jost (SPD) visited the scene, bringing ice cream for emergency workers and local residents. A police spokesperson said the deployment could extend over a longer period.

“Bei mechanischer Verarbeitung können sowohl die Schwermetalle als auch radioaktive Partikel freigesetzt werden.”

No public danger

Despite the discovery, authorities stressed that there is no danger to the general public. The apartment of the 24-year-old man was classified as uninhabitable and sealed off after radiation levels were measured. Police said that if further protective measures become necessary, affected persons would be informed immediately, but there is currently no cause for such steps. Residents with concerns were directed to contact the environment ministry in Saarbrücken.

“Nach derzeitigem Kenntnisstand besteht keine Gefahr für die allgemeine Öffentlichkeit.”

Investigation widens

After the initial operation at the man's apartment concluded, investigators identified a second property where similar material may have been stored. The location belongs to a third party, but police did not disclose its address. No arrest has been made so far. Authorities are now working to determine the exact nature and quantity of the minerals before deciding on further steps. The investigation remains ongoing.