On Merseyside, police launched a forensic marking operation to combat burglary. On June 2, Merseyside Police began offering 2,500 home owners a SelectaDNA property marking kit to mark household valuables such as iPads, mobile phones and flatscreen TVs. They are also signing up 30 retailers to benefit from the protection that SelectaDNA Spray can offer against anyone committing a robbery, raid or break-in. The SelectaDNA Spray can be activated by staff during a crime and the forensic spray leaves a mark on the offender. The mark, which is unique to each shop or business, is then visible under an ultraviolet (UV) light.
Chief Inspector Jenny Sims, said: “As well as offering homeowners extra measures against burglary, we are continuing our efforts to tackle retail crime. The force works closely with bookmakers, off-licenses and convenience stores and we offer crime prevention advice and point them in the direction of the most appropriate security measures. This has included fogging devices and electronic trackers.
“Retailers are now also using forensic sprays as a further security measure to deter people from committing these offences and identifying anyone who does commit this type of offence. Local businesses play such an important role in our communities and Merseyside Police will do everything it can to make them as secure as possible.”
Merseyside officers and PCSOs from the Liverpool North Old Swan neighbourhood have been going door-to-door offering the forensic marking kits and crime prevention advice.
Chief Inspector Jenny Sims, said: “Merseyside Police is absolutely committed to tackling burglary and we want to make it as difficult as possible for would-be burglars. A burglary can have a massive impact on the victims. Not only has someone broken into your home but they’ve taken valuable items that you’ve worked hard for.”
Visit www.selectadna.co.uk.
