Cancer warning over stolen radioactive lightning conductors

Detectives have issued a public health warning after burglars stole highly dangerous radioactive lightning conductors.

The seven spikes — which were historically used to prevent lightning damage to church spires — were stolen from Balheary Rd in Swords, north Co Dublin, over the weekend.

The Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland said the hazardous devices could contaminate anyone who came into contact with them, posing a long-term risk of developing cancer.

David Dawson of the RPII appealed for anyone who came across the lightning preventers to stay well clear and to notify the authorities immediately.

“They just look like scrap metal and I’d say that’s why they were stolen,” said Mr Dawson.

“But they do contain radioactive sources which are dangerous if handled.

“You need to stay well away from these things — do not handle them.”

The lightning preventers — mostly imported into Ireland in the 1960s but now considered to be no more effective than other non-radioactive conductors — were stored in a red metal box.

A licence is needed to keep the material and it is understood the legal owner was authorised to keep them.

Gardaí said the devices had the appearance of aluminium or stainless steel but were of no scrap value.

“These are highly dangerous and should not be touched or approached, ” said a Garda spokesman.

Anyone with information about the lightning preventers is asked to contact investigators at Swords on 01 666 4700 or the RPII on 01 206 6913.