Operation Shield

As part of our ongoing work to deter people from committing crime in Cheshire, we have invested in forensic property marking kits to identify those responsible for theft. The work we are doing in this area of prevention is branded Operation Shield.

Neighbourhood Policing Teams are visiting households and businesses to introduce forensic property marking. They are offering householders and business owners free kits which are made by a UK company called Selectamark Security Systems plc. Their product is called SelectaDNA.

What is SelectaDNA?

It is a cutting-edge way of protecting your property from theft. Each bottle within the kit contains a unique DNA code and thousands of tiny microdots that, once applied, identify it as yours.

Why use SelectaDNA?

Over 90% of UK police forces have used SelectaDNA in crime prevention schemes. It is a proven deterrent against theft and burglary because criminals fear the power of DNA technology. By discreetly marking your items with the solution, registering your kit on the secure database and displaying warning stickers on your property, you will make your property less of a target to thieves.

As the DNA code is manufactured artificially it bears no relation to human DNA. The solution is hypoallergenic, almost invisible and will not damage the property in any way. It also remains traceable for years after application.

Taking action against theft

If an item is stolen and later found, police can link it directly with the crime scene allowing it to be returned to its owner. All officers in Cheshire are equipped with UV torches that identify the forensic property marking on an offender. This instantly links criminals to crime scenes and increases the chance of convicting thieves.

Many insurance companies actively recommend forensic property marking to their policy holders.

As well as the free kits that officers are distributing, Cheshire residents and business owners can purchase additional kits, using a unique code, for £27 including VAT and postage (RRP £59.50). Visit the SelectaDNA website and enter the unique code: NHWSHIELD.

If you haven’t been visited by our Neighbourhood Policing Teams and would like more information, please use our website or call 101 and ask for your Local Policing Unit.