The Bermuda Police Service is to relaunch its U-MARK Programme, making it all the more difficult for thieves to sell stolen goods.

Police Sergeant Alex McDonald yesterday announced the return of the initiative, explaining that its method of marking valuables with the owner's details had once seen great success.

Sgt. McDonald explained the Service had been trying to relaunch the programme for some time, largely because when stolen property is recovered, it is difficult to identify owners unless they can provide a serial number. "We are finding if you mark something with your details, it will be very difficult for a thief to sell it. It's mainly laptops, TVs and electronic equipment."

He continued: "What we are trying to do is make it a little more difficult. Why do people steal them? To get money. If you avoid the actual process, it works better."

U-MARK, he added, makes that easier. The programme is to be officially launched on Friday, at the end of Police Week. It is supported by Argus, BF&M, Colonial Insurance and Datatag.

The Service released a press statement advising the public on the many ways in which valuables can be marked.

Officers suggest owners start with their initials, followed by their driver's license number or date of birth. Promotional packets containing the U-MARK brochure, an ultraviolet marking pen and colourful stickers will be available to the public during the month of November.

They can be picked up at all three Police Stations, and the offices of Argus, BF&M, Colonial Insurance and World Distributors. The Police Service will keep registered U-MARK items on file for three years.

Added Sgt. McDonald, marking belongings does not ensure they will not be stolen, but it will reduce the risk of theft and assist the Bermuda Police Service in recovering the items.