DNA marker to beat metal theft

HOMES in Limehurst are being forensically marked to foil metal thieves.

Housing provider Regenda is marking boilers and pipes and other valuables in its properties as a deterrent and to give police more weapons in the fight against theft.

The marking system, SelectaDNA, uses a special paint which contains a specific DNA code, and a series of microdots unique to each company. The invisible coating shows up under UV light and police can identify the rightful owner.

The move has been made to combat the growing problem of theft of valuable metals and other items from empty properties.

Chris Dale, Regenda’s head of property services, said: “Over the past year 10 of our empty properties in Limehurst have been targeted. It is potentially very dangerous, especially where pipes or cabling are taken if gas, water and electricity supplies are left live.

“It has cost us over £40,000 to replace items, rectify damage and prevent further thefts.”

The system will be used street by street in Limehurst over the next few months.


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