Man arrested after trying to split atoms in his kitchen

A Swedish man has been arrested on charges of illegal possession of nuclear material after trying to split atoms in his kitchen.

Richard Handl said he had the radioactive elements radium, americium and uranium in his apartment because he wanted to try nuclear fission as a hobby, then police showed up.

He said he had always been interested in physics and chemistry and "just wanted to see if it was possible to split atoms at home."

The raid took place in late July, but police have refused to comment. If convicted, Handl could face fines or up to two years in prison.

AP