Australia continues search for missing radioactive capsule

Some of Australia's western territories were notified of a radiation alert on Saturday after officials confirmed a radioactive capsule was lost on the route between Newman and Perth.

Australia's Department of Fire and Emergency Services said a search was underway for a silver capsule containing Caesium-137 that was found to be missing this week, despite the transport vehicle leaving the mining site on January 12.

"The substance is used within gauges in mining operations. Exposure to this substance could cause radiation burns or radiation sickness," the agency explained. The capsule is believed to be from one of Rio Tinto's mines in the area.

Baha Breaking News (BBN) / ND