North Korea accused of fifth and largest nuclear test

North Korea is suspected of carrying out its fifth and largest nuclear test, after an artificial magnitude five point three earthquakes was detected close to its test site.

South Korea's news agency quoted unnamed South Korean officials as saying it is highly likely to have been a nuclear test.

Previous artificial earthquakes in the same area and of that magnitude have all been nuclear tests.

There has been no comment from the North as yet.

The US Geological Survey, which monitors global seismic activity, said this morning's tremor had been detected in the Punggye-ri area in the north-east and was caused by an explosion.

Meanwhile North Korea is marking its National Day today.

Reports say the country often uses such events as an opportunity for a show of military strength.  

BBC