A high-tech crime-busting library of the unique DNA signatures of convicted criminals could be created in Bermuda, it was revealed yesterday.

And the proposed move could make cracking crime easier because even a tiny sample of body tissue or fluid left at the scene of a crime fingers a criminal -- with only a millions-to-one chance of being wrong.

Police Commissioner Colin Coxall revealed his ambition yesterday as Premier David Saul officially opened the brand-new scenes-of-crime unit on the former US Navy Air Station at St. David's.

Mr. Coxall said: "I would definitely like to do that in the future -- but I would need legislative changes to do it.'' The Commissioner added that he would also like to see indexes of tooth and tool marks, fibres and glass created to speed up the crime investigation process.

He was speaking as Dr. Saul and Home Affairs Minister Quinton Edness toured the spacious new building -- opened in April as a replacement for cramped and out-of-date accommodation at the force's Prospect headquarters.

The Scenes of Crime Office is the technological side of the fight against crime and includes laboratory facilities, the Police photographic section and the fingerprints section.

Forensic experts can raise fingerprints and carry out a range of scientific tests under laboratory conditions to help build a strong case against an accused.

And the extra space and better conditions for the 11-strong team has meant new and better equipment has been bought and installed.

Mr. Coxall admitted he was horrified when he took over the top job and saw the conditions forensic officers worked under.

He said: "I decided right at the outset something had to be done -- scenes of crime is the key to solving serious crime.

"It's amazingly important -- I did all my detective training at Scotland Yard which is the best in the world.

"We won't get up to that standard, but what was available to me and what was available to my detectives here was seriously out of kilter.'' He was backed by Dr. Saul and Mr. Edness, who said that the falling crime rate was a tribute to the force's work.

Dr. Saul said: "This does not happen by luck -- it comes through the dedication of an organised service which has Bermuda's best interests in the forefront of their minds.

"But at the same time, good facilities and some sophisticated equipment is necessary.'' And he added that he expected to see further falls in crime statistics in the future.

Mr. Edness said this was the first opportunity he had had to thank the new-look Police publicly for their service to the Country.

He added: "I think everyone will wish to join me in congratulating the Police on the way they have resolved some of the major crimes which have occurred recently.

"And this new facility is obviously going to enhance the effectiveness of their efforts quite substantially. It will, I believe, cause the people to feel even more secure now that they have a dedicated service which can deal with any crime.'' He added: "What the public will have to take note of is the quickness with which serious crime is being solved.

"And some ought to take note that they shouldn't commit crimes because they are going to get caught.''