As London grapples with a disturbing rise in phone thefts, law enforcement is turning to cutting-edge technology to combat the surge of mobile-related crimes. The Metropolitan Police have recently started utilising an invisible DNA tagging spray, known as SelectaDNA, aiming to identify and link suspects to specific thefts without engaging in potentially dangerous high-speed pursuits.

This innovative spray, which contains a unique DNA code only visible under ultraviolet light, is applied to the clothing and skin of individuals involved in thefts, particularly those using e-bikes—an increasingly popular mode of transport for criminals. Inspector Dan Jones of the Watford neighbourhood policing team stated, "It's another tool in our box of tactics to make it increasingly difficult for criminals to operate," during a recent briefing. The approach not only serves as a deterrent but also assists in the prosecution of offenders.

Statistics illustrate the alarming trend of thefts sweeping across the capital, with phone and bag thefts reported to have increased by 70 per cent nationally over the past year, marking a 20-year high according to the Crime Survey for England and Wales. This uptick in thefts seems closely tied to the rise in e-bike usage, which allows perpetrators to make quick getaways. The introduction of this DNA tagging spray comes as part of a pilot project aimed at evaluating its effectiveness over a six-month period in various hotspots, including London and Cambridgeshire.

The Met Police have previously employed SelectaDNA in various contexts, such as protecting vulnerable individuals under domestic abuse restraining orders and tackling shoplifting. The effectiveness of this spray has been evidenced in prior initiatives that resulted in a notable decrease in moped-related crimes. Between June and September 2017, for example, the use of DNA sprays contributed to a 24% reduction in such offences, showcasing the potential of this technology in crime prevention.

Furthermore, alongside enhanced patrols and operations in key areas like Westminster—where nearly 40 per cent of phone thefts occur—the Met has seized over 1,000 stolen phones and apprehended around 230 suspects in targeted operations. These efforts demonstrate a comprehensive approach to tackling a growing crisis that costs the UK economy an estimated £50 million annually. The recent arrests involving gang members who collectively handled over 5,000 stolen phones indicate that the authorities are making inroads, with various operations yielding a significant 27% drop in reported thefts by November 2024, and an even more promising 43% decrease the following month.

With the advent of the SelectaDNA spray and augmented policing efforts, the Metropolitan Police are sending a clear message to opportunistic thieves: the risks of being apprehended are increasing. The high-quality CCTV coverage in areas such as Westminster is expected to bolster these efforts, enabling rapid response to incidents and better chances of recovery for stolen property.

While the statistics and police reports paint a hopeful picture of progress, the very real human impact of these thefts cannot be overlooked. Public figures, including actress Rosamund Pike and former tennis player Annabel Croft, have shared their alarming experiences of being victims of mobile theft in broad daylight. Such accounts illustrate the anxiety and personalization of crime that affects so many Londoners. The increased vigilance and innovative strategies employed by the police speak to a broader concern for public safety and community resilience as this fight against mobile theft continues.

As the pilot programme unfolds, it remains to be seen how effective the DNA tagging spray will be in achieving long-term reductions in phone thefts. Nevertheless, the integration of modern technology into policing efforts exemplifies a proactive stance that aims not only to curb crime but also to restore a sense of safety and security to the streets of London.

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Source: Noah Wire Services