Locks and Security News: your weekly locks and security industry newsletter
17th April 2024 Issue no. 701

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Catalytic converter thefts

Police are issuing advice to motorists following a number of catalytic converter thefts across the country.

Thieves have been targeting the catalytic converters of predominately Mercedes Benz Sprinter vans. Catalytic converters are targeted due to the high value of the precious metals they contain. Since 1 January 2013, there have been 10 reports of catalytic converter thefts from areas including Medway, Sittingbourne, Tonbridge, Maidstone, Ashford and Ramsgate.

Vans and four-wheel drives are most at risk from catalytic converter theft. The 10 most recent reports have all involved a Mercedes Benz Sprinter.
Witnesses urged to come forward

Chief Superintendent Steve Corbishley of Kent Police said: 'Catalytic converters are often stolen for the costly metal they contain. The thieves often try to sell the stolen metal to scrap metal dealers or export them to other countries.

'We work closely with scrap metal dealers to make it easier to trace sellers of stolen metal and remove those dealers who operate illegally.
'I'd urge anyone with information about any of the incidents to contact Kent Police on 101.'

There are a number of things you can do to prevent becoming a victim of crime:

- Keep your vehicle in a garage whenever possible, or park in busy, well-lit areas.
- Look out for people working under cars who are acting suspiciously.
- Fit a catalytic converter clamp or security cage to protect your catalytic converter.
- Security mark and register the metal shell of the converter so if it stolen and recovered, it will be easier to trace it back to your vehicle.

16th January 2013