Japan: Radiation Hampers Search for Bodies

Japan: Radiation Hampers Search for BodiesTokyo, Mar 31. -Radiation levels in the evacuation area around the Fukushima-1 nuclear plant is hampering the search for about 1,000 victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

Police sources quoted in news reports stated that some bodies had been exposed to high radiation levels, adding another tragic aspect to the continuing nuclear crisis.

The above information is based on the detection on Sunday of high radiation levels in a body found in Okuma, about five kilometers (3.1 miles) from the plant.

After leaks from the Fukushima nuclear plant, seriously damaged by the two natural disasters, the population living within a range of 20 km (12 miles) was evacuated.

Authorities were trying to figure out out to continue recovery efforts amid fears that police, physicians and families of the victims are being exposed to contamination by removing the dead or in morgues.

Meanwhile, the government stated it would measure radioactivity in areas near the Fukushima plant, and expand the evacuation zone, in keeping with suggestions by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Franceâ�Ös President Nicolas Sarkozy arrived in this capital on Thursday to meet with with Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan on the nuclear crisis and possible aid. (Prensa Latina)