DNA tagging spray will be used by South Yorkshire Police for the first time at Sunday’s Sheffield football derby to identify trouble-causing fans.
The spray contains a synthetic DNA-like solution which is invisible on an individual’s clothing and skin, but is detectable using ultraviolet light making it easier to trace those involved in disorder.
It was first used at a football match by Cheshire Police in March 2025, and since then other forces including West Yorkshire Police have made used of the spray.
Supt Charlotte Bloxham, who is overseeing the Sheffield Wednesday v Sheffield United game at Hillsborough, said the match should be a “celebration of sport, not a platform for criminal behaviour”.