Fatcat. That is a bummer. The person that sold you the nucs contends that the disease did not come from him. It most likely did come from him, but he just did not know that the disease was present. I don't think his intention was to be deceitful or dishonest. AFB is a nasty one, it can be harboured in the smallest of places. Bjornbee said to scorch the boxes, etc. when purchasing used equipment. He is correct in so saying. But I have also heard talk of not only scorching the boxes, but taking each piece of equipment apart, to scorch the ENTIRE contents, even the cracks. AFB spores can be harboured even in the smallest of places. Be always aware when purchasing any used beekeeping equipment that has been used to house bees. New equipment is expensive, but also is the work that should be done to "purge" old equipment that can be harbouring disease. It is a catch 22, no doubt. Sorry to hear of the loss of the colonies, that is a saddened thing. Have a great life, great day, great health. Cindi