The invisible fluid guarding Cornwall’s rugby clubs from thieves

There is a new line of defence at rugby clubs across Cornwall, and it is one thieves cannot see. High-value club equipment is being tagged with a forensic fluid that leaves no visible trace but ties every marked item back to its owner.

Police have been working with rugby clubs across the county to mark up expensive equipment using security techniques that are invisible to the eye.

A response to last year’s thefts

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

The move comes after a spate of clubs were targeted by burglars, with thousands of pounds worth of tractors, mowers and other equipment stolen. A total of 17 rugby clubs in Cornwall now have SmartWater.

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.”

How SmartWater works

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.

Clubs are also given signage warning thieves that forensic marking fluid has been used on all items.

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.”

What the clubs say

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.”

Sports clubs in Devon and Cornwall who want to learn more about the forensic marking kits can contact Crime Prevention Tactical Advisor Hannah Denton at [email protected].