Global Nuclear Inquiry Stalls
Authorities fear that the extent of a Pakistani scientist's proliferation ring remains unknown and that it will resume work if pressures ease.
By William C. Rempel and Douglas Frantz, Times Staff Writers
VIENNA — The global investigation into Abdul Qadeer Khan's black market trade in nuclear technology has stalled in a clash of national interests that threatens a full accounting of his secret partners and clients, according to interviews with diplomats and officials from several countries.
International authorities fear the full scope of the Pakistani scientist's ring may never be known.
Senior investigators said they were especially worried that dangerous elements of the illicit network of manufacturers and suppliers would remain undetected and capable of resuming operations once international pressures eased.
Investigators also said that records obtained in Libya and elsewhere showed that some nuclear equipment purchased or manufactured by the network had yet to be found, raising the possibility that it was diverted to still unidentified customers....
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