In Germany, polonium-210 has been found in two buildings linked to a businessman who met poisoned ex-KGB agent Alexander Litvinenko on the day he fell ill. On Saturday, traces of radiation were reported at an apartment belonging to Dmitry Kovtun’s ex-wife in Hamburg and at his former mother-in-law’s home, outside the city. Today, police confirmed they had found the same substance that claimed Litvinenko’s life.

German prosecutors are investigating Kovtun, who is suspected of illegally handling radioactive material. Hospitalised in Russia, some reports say he is critically ill. His business partner Andrei Lugovoy is also undergoing medical checks. He, too, met Alexander Litvinenko on the day in question.

Scotland Yard detectives are pursuing their enquires in Moscow. Back in the UK, two police officers probing the case have tested positive for polonium-210. Both are being monitored but are said to be in good health.

Copyright © 2012 euronews