Invisible security marking at rugby clubs sets out to deter thieves

Police have been working alongside Cornwall rugby clubs to mark up high-value equipment with security techniques that are invisible to the eye.

Following a run of burglaries in the county last year, police have teamed up with DeterTech to offer SmartWater forensic marking kits to sports clubs across the county.

SmartWater is an invisible forensic fluid that tags items with a unique code, linking them to their rightful owner. A single application lasts at least five years.

Crime Prevention Tactical Advisor at Devon & Cornwall Police, Hannah Denton, said: “Marking expensive property in this way is so effective in both preventing opportunist thieves and reuniting important equipment to clubs if stolen.

“Burglaries have a significant financial impact on grass roots clubs and their attendees.

“From children’s sports clubs to adult rugby, so many can feel the effects when equipment that is vital to their daily running is stolen.

“So being able to help prevent this from happening in the first place, whilst providing some reassurance that if stolen items are found they will be reunited to their rightful owners, is positive.”

The initiative sets out to tackle theft following a run of sports clubs targeted by burglars last year, where thousands of pounds worth of tractors, mowers and other equipment were stolen.

A total of 17 rugby clubs in Cornwall now have SmartWater.

A spokesperson from the Cornwall Rugby Football Union (CRFU) said: "We were delighted to be involved in this initiative to provide a meaningful deterrent to the stealing of the hard-earned assets at so many of our Community Clubs.

"The process to source and deploy the kits was quick and efficient, and will hopefully prove of lasting benefit as we aim to address a key concern at many clubs."

Hannah added: “As well as the SmartWater marking itself, clubs are given signage warning thieves that forensic marking fluid has been used on all items – which is another effective deterrent.

“We’ll continue to work with DeterTech to provide the SmartWater kits across sporting communities in Devon and Cornwall at a reduced cost as part of our stand against thieves.”

Sports clubs in Devon and Cornwall who are interested in learning more about forensic marking kits should contact Crime Prevention Tactical Advisor Hannah Denton: hannah.denton@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk

(Photo credit: Simon Bryant Iktisphoto)