NEWARK, Calif.–Morpho Detection, Inc. (MDI), the explosives and narcotics detection business of Morpho, Safran group’s security unit, today announced that Operation International, a collaborative program with police forces throughout the U.K., has to date resulted in several hundred thousand pounds generated by cocaine dealing being repossessed.

Under the U.K. Proceeds of Crime Act, police and prosecutors are able to get back a proportion of these confiscated assets. Known as the Incentivisation Scheme, these funds contribute to future law enforcement activities.

As part of this program, when cash is found during a police investigation, it is tested for trace amounts of cocaine using MDI’s Itemiser® 3 or Itemiser® 3 Enhanced desktop trace detection system. If the amount of cocaine found is five times or more that of amounts found on currency in general circulation, that cash is seized by law enforcement. Under U.K. law, 50 percent of confiscated funds are retained and recycled into crime fighting initiatives.

“We are honored that police departments throughout the U.K. have recognized MDI for having the technology to assist in combating dangerous criminal activity,” said Brad Buswell, president and CEO, Morpho Detection, Inc. “MDI is committed to providing the most innovative solutions that help law enforcement officials solve difficult challenges, enhance operational efficiencies and increase ROI on security investments. The proven success of this program and our close work with various police departments is an example of delivering on this commitment.”

The intelligence gained on criminal activity by identifying money involved in cocaine distribution gives police an additional tool to identify criminal activity. By seizing the assets of those involved in the drug trade, police are able to remove the major motivation for crime.

“Seizing the assets of drug dealers takes away the main benefit of crime – the ability to make large sums of money,” said Detective Sergeant Neil Clarkson, Humberside Police Economic Crime Unit. “This is almost as big a threat to the criminal as going to prison. Linking a suspect’s assets to a supply of cocaine helps put money obtained illegally to work protecting our communities.”

The international sales and service unit of MDI, Morpho Detection International, Inc. (MDII), works with 27 police forces and other law enforcement agencies throughout the U.K. to test currency in general circulation for traces of cocaine. This testing has resulted in an accepted amount of cocaine that reasonably can be expected on notes in general circulation.

Certified for use in Operation International, the Itemiser 3 and Itemiser 3 Enhanced utilize MDI’s Ion Trap Mobility Spectroscopy (ITMS™), or trace, technology to deliver qualified narcotics detection in a desktop package that is portable, reliable, cost effective and easy to use. As a result, police departments realize additional cost savings and operational efficiencies through the reduced need for laboratory identification services. With Itemiser, narcotics identification can take place immediately in the field, allowing police to respond quickly to situations and pursue criminals.

In addition to cocaine, the Itemiser can identify a broad range of narcotics. This allows end-users to develop a customized substance identification library to meet their specific needs. MDI also helps train officers who use the Itemiser to ensure the tests are done accurately and according to all laws and approved police procedures.

The U.K. Government Home Office Centre for Applied Science and Technology (previously HOSDB) is involved in Operation International to advise on the sampling, interpretation of results and to assist in the development of protocols so the results can be safely used in civil prosecutions. Research and testing is ongoing to raise fundamental knowledge about drug contamination on banknotes and increase the value of this evidence in court.

For more information on Morpho’s detection products, visit www.morpho.com/detection.

About Morpho Detection, Inc.

Morpho Detection, Inc., part of Morpho, a business of the Safran group (PAR: SAF), is a leading supplier of explosives and narcotics and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) detection systems for government, military, air and ground transportation, first responder, critical infrastructure and other high-risk organizations. Morpho Detection integrates computed tomography (CT), Raman Spectroscopy, trace (ITMS™ technology), X-ray and X-ray Diffraction technologies into solutions that can make security activities more accurate, productive and efficient. With the 2011 acquisition of Syagen Technology, Inc., the Morpho Detection portfolio now includes mass spectrometry products and technology for high-speed molecular analysis for a broad range of chemical analysis applications, ranging from homeland security to pharmaceutical analysis. With industry-leading products such as the Itemiser® DX trace detection system, the CTX line of explosive detection systems (EDS), and the StreetLab® Mobile hand-held chemical and biological substance identification unit, Morpho Detection’s solutions are deployed to help protect people and property the world over.