Banten Police Investigate Suspected Potassium Waste Dumping in Cikande

A 15-member chemical, biological and radioactive unit from Banten Police has examined suspected potassium waste dumped in farmland in Cikande, Serang Regency.

The team inspected three areas measuring about 90, 150 and 160 square meters and collected 12 samples for further identification. Initial radiation readings appeared safe, with background radiation recorded at 0.05 microsieverts per hour.

Police spokesperson Maruli Hutapea said some samples contained potassium-40, while others showed no radioactive material. “Several samples were detected to contain potassium-40, but to confirm the content and characteristics of the material, the samples are still undergoing identification,” he said.

“

Initial detection found background radiation at the site measured 0.05 microsieverts per hour. Tests of several samples showed potassium-40 in some samples, while other samples did not contain identifiable radioactive material.

The team also checked for chemical and radioactive hazards using specialized equipment. Tested air parameters, including IBaT, CH2, sulfur dioxide, oxygen and hydrogen sulfide, were normal. Oxygen levels measured 20.9% by volume, and police said no radioactive exposure exceeded the permitted threshold.

Maruli cautioned that the detection of potassium in Nambo Udik village cannot immediately be classified as radioactive contamination. The final assessment will follow completion of laboratory identification. The unit previously handled a shrimp factory exposed to cesium-137 in 2025.

“

Several samples were detected to contain potassium-40, but to confirm the content and characteristics of the material, the samples are still undergoing identification.