We can analyse lachrymator residues from aerosols or on garments that have been sprayed with a “defence gas spray”. Our analysis involves a microscopic examination of any garments followed by analysis for lachrymator residues.
Case Study
After a bouncer refused a group of people entry to a casino, he was assaulted by the group and sprayed with what was suspected to be tear gas (CS gas). The bouncer’s jacket was seized by a police Scenes of Crime Officer and sent to M-Scan for analysis. We examined the jacket from the bouncer and identified over 50 white crystalline particles. Analysis of the jacket revealed the presence of capsaicin, the lachrymator agent within pepper spray aerosols. Section 5(1)(b) of the Firearms Act 1968 prohibits “weapons designed to discharge a noxious gas, liquid or other thing” and as such a lachrymator aerosol would be classed as a “Section 5 firearm”.
M-Scan Brochure: Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Analysis (8pp.)