Ford launches rural forensic marker
Date published:
Justice Minister David Ford has launched a pilot rural forensic marking scheme which aims to help prevent and detect theft from farms.
Justice Minister David Ford has launched a pilot rural forensic marking scheme which aims to help prevent and detect theft from farms.
The 200 SelectDNA farm kits containing forensic marking solution, farm warning labels, a metal warning plaque and a UV keyring light, are to be distributed through the Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) in Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, where the highest levels of agricultural crime have been recently recorded.
Attending the launch at the Annual Mullahead Ploughing Match David Ford said: “Farm theft can have a devastating impact on victims, both emotionally and financially, so I am pleased that my Department is supporting this trial of forensic marking to help prevent and detect theft from farms. Used in conjunction with warning signs, forensic marking is an effective theft deterrent and assists the police in tracing the rightful owners of recovered property.”
The Minister also highlighted the benefits of partnership working to build safer rural communities, which is a key strand of the Department of Justice Community Safety Strategy. He said: “I welcome the fact that levels of agricultural crime have fallen 26% when compared with the previous twelve months. However, I recognise the impact these crimes have on individual farming businesses, and the wider implications for community confidence. It is important that we continue to work in partnership with rural communities to tackle this issue.
“I would encourage all rural dwellers to be alert and play their part in protecting their community by reporting their suspicions or concerns about criminal activity. This can be done by contacting the PSNI on 101 or the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111, or in the case of fraud, the DARD Fraud Hotline on 080 8100 2716.”
Notes to editors:
1. SelectaDNA is a traceable forensic marking solution with a unique DNA code that can be easily applied to items of value such as farm equipment. In the event that any items are stolen and recovered by Police, they are immediately traceable back to an individual farm.
2. The Rural Crime Partnership is a multi-agency partnership between the Department of Justice, NFU Mutual, PSNI, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and Ulster Farmers’ Union.
3. PSNI Crime Prevention Officers can advise on a range of security measures. Information and reports about crime and criminal activity can be given to police by calling 101, or can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
4. Suspected fraud relating to farming activity can be reported anonymously to the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Fraud Hotline on 080 8100 2716 (24/7 service).
5. For all media queries, please contact the DOJ Press Office on 028 9052 6444. For out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.