Crackdown on 'devastating' tool thefts launched

A new campaign to crack down on tools being stolen from tradespeople in Sussex has been launched.

Sussex Police and the county's Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne are encouraging builders to take advantage of free forensic DNA tool marking.

Bourne said: "I hear devastating stories from tradespeople whose livelihoods have been put at risk after having their tools stolen."

Contractor Rob Helms said he had been targeted three times this year already, adding: "This is what the trade needs."

In 2025 alone, there were 2,451 vehicle-related thefts in Sussex - many resulting in tools being stolen, said police.

Helms added: "It's the damage and everything they do.

"The tools – to sell them on – aren't really worth anything, but for us as a trade they're worth a lot of money."

He said the trade needed "preventative measures to stop thieves from even thinking of entering a van".

Tradespeople have been invited to have their tools marked for free between Tuesday and Thursday at specific branches of Travis Perkins.

Tools are marked with a unique synthetic DNA solution which is impossible to remove completely.

If a marked tool is subsequently stolen and recovered by the police, it can be identified using a UV light.

Bourne added: "These kits will provide reassurance, practical protection and a strong deterrent to criminals.

"I strongly encourage anyone working in a trade to attend one of these events and take advantage of this free protection."

Chf Insp Oliver Fisher said: "Our officers will continue to work closely with local businesses, trade associations and tradespeople to recover and return any reported stolen items and to prevent these crimes before they happen.

"We encourage anyone who sees suspicious activity to report it immediately - this information could help us catch criminals in the act."

The next tool-marking events will be held at the Whitley Road, Eastbourne, branch of Travis Perkins on Wednesday and at the Crawley Road, Horsham, branch on Thursday.

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