North Van RCMP warn public of stolen nuclear gauge containing radioactive material

North Vancouver RCMP are issuing a public warning following the theft of a vehicle which contained a nuclear soil moisture density gauge.

On February 13th, 2024 at approximately 9:30 p.m., North Vancouver RCMP responded to a theft from a fitness centre located in the 1000 block of Marine Drive, North Vancouver. The complainant advised that their grey 2004 Mazda 6 bearing BC licence plate VG377B was stolen, while parked in the underground parking lot. A nuclear soil moisture density gauge was stolen with the vehicle and could pose a health risk to the person who took it. The below photo is a stock photo of the stolen vehicle.

Nuclear gauges are devices used in construction and other industrial sectors to measure and test various materials. The stolen device, a Troxler 3430 model like the one pictured below, contains a small amount of radioactive material. A person may start to experience effects from the radiation after 24 hours of exposure to a gauge that is not stored properly. Tampering with the device can also expose a person to radiation.

Anyone who handles the stolen device should leave it sealed in its case to prevent exposure. The device does not produce enough radiation to be a risk to the broader public.

“We’re seeking public assistance to locate the Mazda 6 along with the nuclear gauge so it can be returned to the owner,” said Constable Mansoor Sahak, Media Relations Officer for the North Vancouver RCMP. “We are investigating the theft and are asking anyone with information on the incident or whereabouts of the vehicle or the nuclear gauge to call our non-emergency line at 604-985-1311.”