Some theft can be handled by dusting "bait" articles with what are called "Detective Dyes". Certain of these dyes are immediately visible and color the skin in a variety of colors that will resist soap and water for days. Other "Detective Dyes" are only visible under ultra violet light.

Traps that will send you an alarm when a bait article is moved can also be purchased from electronic stores. Sometimes it makes sense implant radio transmitters in "bait items". That makes it possible to track stolen items great distances.

Hidden video cameras can catch the thief and provide excellent evidence. Other, passive devices such as those used to foil shoplifting, can be useful in setting a trap.

If the theft is of a large enough scale, it makes sense to address such matters by first finding where the stolen property is being sold and then, step by step, tracing it back to the thief.

Insertion of an undercover operative in the facility can be effective, but also very expensive. Keep in mind that during normal duty hours the undercover operative may see little more than your trusted supervisors see. However, that work relationship gives the undercover operative the opportunity to establish off duty social relationships during which there is a good chance of a coworker of the thief telling the undercover operative exactly what is going on. Remember, building such relationships can take months. This is an activity that requires the highest level of investigative management skills. It should never be attempted by persons unskilled in the management of complex investigations and in intelligence trade craft. To do so is courting disaster.