Selectamark's specially trained DNA detection dog was deployed to sniff for stolen metal as part of a Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) campaign co-ordinated with police forces across the UK to target national and international metal thieves.
Jazz is the first detection dog in the world to be trained to sniff out stolen metal marked with the range of SelectaDNA Traceable Liquids. Complimenting existing police search procedures, Jazz touches the metal with her nose identifying the target scent, allowing officers to move in and make further investigations.
She was used as part of Operation Ferrous, where officers conducted roadside checks across London to ensure legality of load and vehicle safety. They also visited scrap metal dealers and motor salvage operators with the aim of disrupting the unlicensed trading of catalytic converters.
Jazz and her trainer Mick Swindells helped police search vehicles that had been stopped under suspicion of carrying metal or other stolen goods. Arrests were made during the operation and vehicles were seized.
Overall there has been 29% reduction in metal theft in London thanks to police operational activity, new legislation and a ban on cash payments for the receipt of scrap metal, to ensure there is a cheque or bank transfer audit trail.
Chief Superintendent Sultan Taylor, Safer Transport Command said:
"The MPS together with its UK policing partners is driving home the message to metal thieves and noncompliant scrap dealers that metal theft and unlawful metal dealing will not be tolerated. Metal theft is a huge, cross-industry problem which is not only has a massive impact on the economy, but also communities across the nation."
For further information and images contact: Jessica Farrugia, Senior Marketing Manager for Selectamark.
Phone: +44(0)1689 487829
Email:
[email protected]
Twitter: @selectadna
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