Students from Glasgow University were DNA tested

DNA profiling is now one of the most important tools available to the police in the investigation of crime.

Tiny samples of body tissue or fluid can provide positive proof that an individual was involved in a crime.

Last year the executive announced �1.7m of extra funding to allow forces to increase DNA profiling and help build up a national database.

Half of that money went to the Strathclyde force.

It has announced a significant increase in the range of offences for which suspects can expect to have DNA samples taken.

Students tested

Strathclyde Police recently linked a small DNA sample found at an apparently minor incident with a rape and attempted rape in Edinburgh.

Almost 800 students were DNA tested in the search for a man who sexually assaulted an 11-year old-girl and attacked an 18-year-old woman in Edinburgh last year.

Officers believe a Glasgow University student living in Edinburgh may be responsible for the attacks, which have also been linked to a "peeping tom" incident in Glasgow.