North Korea nuclear test suspected after 'artificial' quake

September 09, 2016 08:03

North Korea is suspected of carrying out its fifth test of a nuclear bomb, after a magnitude 5.3 earthquake was detected close to its test site.

South Korea's Yonhap news agency said it had been an "artificial quake".

An unnamed South Korean government source said it was highly likely to have been a nuclear test.

There has been no confirmation from the North, but previous artificial earthquakes in that area and of that magnitude have all been nuclear tests.

Recent satellite imagery and intelligence has indicated increased activity at the Punggye-ri site, where North Korea carried out its previous tests, indicating a fifth was imminent.

The US Geological Survey, which monitors global seismic activity, said Friday morning's tremor had been detected in that area and was caused by "an explosion".

« Back to LIVE

TOP STORIES

TDP eyes gains in Pulivendula amid Reddy sibling rivalry

But as voters gear up for crucial assembly and parliamentary polls on May 13, all eyes are on the high-stakes battle in Pulivendula, an assembly constituency that has been a Reddy family stronghold for over four decades.

Aman, Sujeet close in on Olympic quotas; Punia eliminated

Aman Sehrawat and Sujeet Kalkal inched closer to securing Paris Olympics quotas by reaching the semi-finals at the World Olympic Wrestling Qualifiers.

76 Indian military personnel replaced by civilians: Maldives

However, the Maldives government has no intention of removing the doctors from India at Senahiya, a media report said.

England's pace great Anderson to retire from Tests in July

James Anderson will retire from Test cricket after the first match of the series against West Indies at Lord's this year.

EPL PIX: Gvardiol brace sends Man City to top

IMAGES from the English Premier League matches played on Saturday.