Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd (SATCoL) has commissioned specialist security company SmartWater Technology Ltd to provide a cutting edge solution to help catch and deter those responsible for thefts from its clothing banks.
SATCoL, which runs The Salvation Army Clothing Collection Scheme and operates over 5,000 clothing banks, is the first textile recycler in the UK to use the technology. It will be using SmartWater’s invisible solution to ’forensically tag’ thieves, leaving a non-harmful trace on their person that can be transferred to other items they come into contact with. Stolen goods can be tracked using GPS systems and under ultra-violet lights any traces of SmartWater becomes visible, making it easier for the authorities to apprehend, gather evidence against and prosecute those responsible.
SmartWater, whose clients include Network Rail and BT Openreach, has already started a detailed analysis of SATCoL’s current theft data and will produce a ‘hotspot’ map, highlighting the most problematic geographical areas. These specific areas will then be targeted with the invisible solution, with each bank having its own unique chemical code to aid the tracking process. Signage highlighting the potential presence of the invisible solution will also be rolled out across SATCoL’s entire network of banks to act as a deterrent to criminals. This operation is expected to be ongoing.
SmartWater will also assist with targeted covert operations in the identified hotspots, which will be carried out with the support of regional police forces. These will see the deployment of cutting edge surveillance equipment and ‘sting’ operations to capture and convict offenders.
SATCoL’s national recycling co-ordinator, Paul Ozanne, emphasised that SmartWater is just one tactic in the company’s strategy to help stem the growing problem of theft.
“Given that we have such a large network of over 5,000 banks, theft is thankfully still a relatively small problem for us but it is undoubtedly growing,” said Paul. “SmartWater is an excellent way to both catch criminals and deter future thefts and we’re confident it will succeed in doing both. However, it is one element of an overall anti-theft strategy we’re employing, including improved locking mechanisms, increased use of CCTV and emptying banks several times per week so large amounts of donations aren’t left for long periods.
“The larger thefts are mostly the work of organised gangs and we’re also actively working with key government officials, including the Minister for Civil Society Nick Hurd, industry bodies including WRAP, the police and other recycling operators to crack down on this activity as part of an industry-wide approach.”
Phil Cleary, Chief Executive of SmartWater, said: “The theft of clothing from SATCol clothing banks is an attack upon the generosity and kindness of the general public. We take this very seriously which is why SmartWater is being deployed to capture and convict those responsible. The use of SmartWater provides the police with robust forensic evidence which has aided over 1,000 criminal convictions and maintains a 100% conviction rate in court. We hope this sends out a very clear message that SATCol clothing banks are not a soft target for thieves.