Police crackdown on catalytic converter theft

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Local police had a successful week of action as part of the crackdown on catalytic converter theft.

Officers took park in a week long stint of dedicated activity and operations between 19 April and 26 April to tackle the issue which has seen an increase in reports since the start of the COVID19 pandemic.

Throughout the week we held multiple converter marking events to deter thieves and help identify the converter if it is taken. During these events we marked 172 vehicles. We also arrested two men on suspicion of catalytic converter theft, a 27year-old and a 29-year-old, both from Telford who have since been released under investigation.

We visited 23 scrap dealers, eight vehicle dismantlers, six catalytic converter buyers and two process plants across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire, to engage and educate them on what to look out for when buying converters. We also stopped 26 mobile collectors, concentrating on rural locations.

Chief Inspector Gareth Morgan said: “I am extremely pleased with the results of this intense week of action. Catalytic converters thefts have been on the rise and the activity is part of our drive to stop this.

“I’d like to reassure the public that although the week of action is over we will still continue to work to tackle this problem. Patrols have been increased in areas across the force where we believe this type of theft more likely and our officers will continue to build relationships with the scrap metal dealers in order to catch those who have stolen converters.”

In addition to our work, there are a number of ways people can protect their property and keep vehicles safe.

Tips on how to protect your vehicle:

  • Keep your vehicle in a garage if you can
  • If you park it on a driveway, install motion activated lighting
  • Otherwise, park in a well-lit, populated area
  • Locks are also available that can be fitted to your converter
  • Mark you catalytic converter with SmartWater

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