A pipeline and heating distributor BSS Industrial is expanding its use of a forensic marking system after four branches experienced a dramatic reduction in stock theft with no successful break-ins over a two year period.
The SmartWater spray works by dousing criminals with a clear, non-hazardous liquid which marks their skin, hair and clothing. Every SmartWater solution contains its own unique forensic code, so once an offender is marked they will carry evidence of their crime. <br> <br>This provides the police with evidence which can be used to link a criminal with an offence long after it has taken place.<br> <br>Mark Gradden, BSS Industrial Loss Prevention Manager, said: ‘Metal theft is an international problem and the theft of certain items such as copper tube has dramatically increased in the UK. At BSS Industrial we have taken the necessary steps to protect our stock, staff and customers. “Following the success of SmartWater at four of our branches, BSS Industrial will now begin installing the systems into all of its BSS outlets where we are confident that it will be equally as effective.”<br> <br>To take the fight to those criminals responsible for metal theft, SmartWater operatives acting on behalf of BSS Industrial will carry out searches for stolen metal at local scrap yards. <br> <br>Detective Inspector Robin Conway from British Transport Police said: “Cable and metal theft is high on BTP’s agenda due to the disruption and economic effect it has on businesses and communities and we will be working to drive home that message. SmartWater technology is a major tool for police to utilise when investigating this sort of crime as it helps us link suspects with the scene of the crime.” <br> <br>“Anyone arrested for metal theft will be examined for traces of SmartWater. A search will be made of the person’s house and any property, including vehicles with traces of SmartWater on them, is likely to be seized by police. Scrap metal dealers will also be visited regularly to ensure they are assisting British Transport Police in identifying criminals attempting to sell stolen metal.”<br><br>And meanwhile in Rochdale, crime reduction officers from the council’s community safety team are offering households free home security assessments. As part of the assessment they offer residents free security upgrades such as new locks, alarms, light timers as well as crime prevention advice. <br> <br>SmartWater has been provided in 146 households across Hollin in Middleton, Kirkholt, Falinge, Oldham Road, Cheapside in Middleton and Spotland. SmartWater is an invisible liquid that glows fluorescent yellow under ultra-violet light. It is painted onto property and contains a unique forensic ID number that links the property to its owner if it’s ever stolen. <br> <br>Dale Mulgrew, cabinet member responsible for community safety at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “We shouldn’t make it easy for burglars. With the dark nights approaching it’s important that people protect their homes and properties by remembering alarm, locks and lights.<br> <br>"If you get offered a free home security assessment please, please take up the offer. You never know it might prevent you coming home to a nasty shock.” <br> <br>Superintendent Martin Greenhalgh for Rochdale Division, said: “Burglary is a particularly distressing crime for residents and I want to assure everyone that patrols have been stepped up in key areas. Officers continue to target known offenders and we will revisit both victims’ homes and others near by to provide them with suitable crime prevention advice.<br> <br>“It is important for people to switch a light on and turn a burglar off. Also remember to set your alarm if you have one, lock your doors and windows and leave a low energy light bulb on to deter potential burglars.”
