An innovative invisible marker scheme could halve incidents of burglary in the borough.
Launched on Monday in Barking and Dagenham, the three-year Met Trace programme aims to reduce crime through the delivery of forensic property marking kits.
This year alone, 20,000 residents in Barking and Dagenham will be shown how to mark their possessions with a unique invisible code, making it easier for police to link burglars to the scene of crime and return property to its rightful owners.
The borough is the fourth in London to pioneer the new deterrent technology, designed by SmartWater company, which is only visible under UV light.
A recent Met trial showed burglary rates reduced on average by 49 per cent where the technology was implemented.
“More and more these days we are seeing criminals becoming forensically aware, however we now have the tools and techniques to stop them,” said Sergeant Nick Archer of Barking and Dagenham Police, who is leading the scheme in the borough.
“This technology will help stop burglars in their tracks and make Barking and Dagenham a ‘no go zone’ for burglars.”
The kit, which also contains deterrent stickers, can also be obtained through SmartWater, Neighbourhood Watch schemes and by contacting your Neighbourhood Police Team.
Keep up to date with the programme by visiting www.content.met.police.uk/Home
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