Stores tackle thieves with invisible DNA spray which will identify them to police

STIAN ALEXANDER
27 OCT 2015
Mirror UK
The solution, which police can see under ultraviolet light, is installed above doors so shopkeepers can soak criminals as they flee a premises
Shopkeepers are installing special sprays in their stores – which soak crooks with a one-of-a-kind DNA solution.
Shoplifters, robbers and burglars have been warned that scores of stores in Merseyside are being fitted with the special spray – which contains a “unique DNA code ” which cops can see under ultraviolet light.
The sprays, usually fitted above shop doors, can be activated manually by storekeepers to soak raiders as they escape or can be automatically activated when a panic button or burglar alarm is triggered.
Crooks are coated in a spray which stains their skin and clothes with a “uniquely coded but invisible dye”, which police can link directly to the raid.
Ian CooperA DNA Selecta Spray fitted above the doorwayDefence: A DNA Selecta Spray installed above a doorway
Superintendent Jenny Sims of Merseyside Police , who launched the “One spray will put you away” project this week, said: “It is important that we do everything we can to protect local businesses from criminals who might be tempted to rob, burgle or steal from them.
“The most important thing has been spreading the word that any shop might have one or more of these devices fitted and criminals face getting caught if they are foolish enough to try their luck.”
The spray, made by SelectaDNA, cannot be washed off and each aerosol can has its own DNA code, linking the criminal directly to the shop raided.