(1)This section applies to any item seized in the exercise of a power conferred by section 252.
(2)The item may be retained so long as is necessary in all the circumstances and in particular—
(a)for use as evidence at a trial for a relevant offence, or
(b)for forensic examination or for investigation in connection with a relevant offence.
(3)No item may be retained for either of the purposes mentioned in subsection (2) if a photograph or a copy would be sufficient for that purpose.