Russian anti-drug police and the Federal Security Service (FSB) have raided a drug lab in Moscow that contained plutonium-contaminated soil, the Federal Drug Control Service (FSKN) said on Thursday, Nov 1.

"We have taken an underground amphetamine lab out of operation," the FSKN said.

"During a search our special services found a small container which probably contains earth from Chernobyl, the radiation dosimeter readings were off the charts. Plutonium was also detected. Four sources of ionizing radiation were found in the car of one of those detained." The criminals may have been part of a terrorist gang, the FSKN added.

The operation took place two weeks ago, but has only just been made public, the FSKN said, adding that staff from MosNPO Radon, a company that specializes in handling radioactive substances, were also involved, RIA Novosti reported.