Brimob CBRN Unit Tests Samples of Alleged Hazardous Waste in Cikande, Serang

The Banten Regional Police, through the Chemical, Biological, and Radiological (CBRN) Unit of the Brimob Force, has conducted sample testing and site inspections regarding alleged hazardous and toxic waste (B3) contamination in the rice field areas of Cikande District, Serang Regency.

Banten Regional Police Head of Public Relations, Kombes Pol Maruli Ahiles Hutapea, stated in Serang on Wednesday that the inspection in Kampung Bayur, Nambo Udik Village, was a rapid police response to information circulating among the public regarding the presence of waste.

“From the initial detection results, the air conditions around the location are safe, and no exposure to radioactive materials exceeding the threshold was found,” said Marability.

The field inspection was led by Kompol Tomi Hadi Sumpena, involving 15 personnel from the CBRN Unit. The team surveyed three locations, covering areas of approximately 90 square metres, 150 square metres, and 160 square metres, using chemical and radioactive detection equipment.

Based on the examination, the background radiation level was recorded at 0.05 microSv/hour. Air quality parameters for gases such as IBaT, CH2, SO2, and H2S also showed normal results, with oxygen (O2) levels at 20.9 per cent by volume.

Although air and radiation detection were monitored as safe, officers found the presence of Potassium-40 (K-40) at several locations.

To ensure the exact characteristics and content of the material, the team has taken 12 samples for further identification processes in the laboratory.

Maruli emphasised that the finding of Potassium-40 cannot immediately be concluded as an indication of dangerous radioactive pollution.

“Therefore, we urge the public not to speculate and to wait for the results of a thorough examination. The most important thing is to ensure that the community remains calm,” he said.

Banten Regional Police ensured they will continue to coordinate with relevant agencies and will promptly communicate the accountable laboratory identification results to the public.