DNA to keep the burglars away

A DNA pen is the latest weapon in the fight to keep Oldham’s homes safe.

Police are urging residents to make their mark on their property with a pen that contains a unique DNA code registered to each home.

The Failsworth Neighbourhood team will be delivering SelectaDNA kits to households in an attempt to thwart crooks.

First on the agenda for the team is tackling Hollinwood and Limehurst following a recent spate of burglaries.

The SelectaDNA liquid is visible under UV light and because it has a unique code, anything marked can be traced back to its owner if recovered. The code is virtually impossible to remove. Each code also links criminals to the crimes they commit, because police scan those arrested for trace markers on clothing and skin.

Extra patrols will be present in the hot-spot areas until Christmas, delivering the kits and crime prevention advice.