Officers in Gwent have introduced unique advanced forensic technology to deter criminals from repeatedly targeting thefts of metal and builders materials from the recently closed Aberbargoed Hospital.
SmartWater solution has now been sprayed throughout the hospital – The solution is invisible under normal light, but glows intensely under UV light making it easily identifiable by the police. If lead is stolen and turns up with scrap dealers, it can easily be traced back and the offender can be forensically linked with the crime scene. Gwent officers are also equipped with UV scanning devices which are used to search for traces of SmartWater at local scrap metal dealers and other outlets.
Nationally it has already assisted the Police in the detection and successful conviction of more than 1,000 criminal cases.
Detective Constable Wayne Alexander from Gwent Police says: “Anyone arrested for metal theft will be examined for traces of SmartWater. A search will be made of the person’s house and any property, including vehicles with traces of SmartWater on them, is likely to be seized by police.
“More and more buildings and property around our local area will be marked with the unique SmartWater technology. Aberbargoed Hospital is clearly signposted to warn criminals of the SmartWater solution. The total cost of spraying Aberbargoed Hospital was only £300 – a low cost solution to a high cost problem!
“Gwent Police wants to see a reduction in crime across our community and, thanks to advances in technology, we have taken a significant step in the right direction. We are sending out a clear message that if thieves try to target our customers, they are running a much higher risk of being caught and convicted.”
Criminals avoid SmartWater for a variety of reasons:
- It is almost impossible to remove. It cannot be burnt or scratched off and bleach and other chemical cleaners have no effect on it.
- It is used in trap operations which have successfully convicted lead thieves and fly-tippers.
- It can also be used as part of police-led covert operations to mark the skin and clothes of criminals.
- Searches for SmartWater are being carried out at second hand dealers, and car boot sales.
- Scrap metal yards and recyclers are also looking for SmartWater on metals from churches, railways, water companies and electricity suppliers.
Anyone who sees any suspicious activity around the Aberbargoed Hospital grounds should contact Gwent on: 01633 838111.
