Five catalytic converters have been stolen from cars in North Derbyshire.
Vehicles were targeted in Old Whittington, New Whittington and at Chesterfield train station. The catalytic converters were taken yesterday afternoon and evening (Tuesday 17 August).
A catalytic converter is a device on vehicle exhausts that reduces the toxic gases and pollutants. Precious metals must be used because the converters have to work efficiently enough to meet emissions standards, and they are being stolen because of the value of these precious metals.
We are encouraging motorists to follow these safety tips to protect their catalytic converters, which could help reduce the chance of becoming a victim:
- If possible, park in a garage or in a position where it would be difficult to access the underside of the vehicle near the exhaust
- Consider marking the catalytic converter with a serial number to identify it, and register it on sites such as Immobilise
- Consider installing protective coverings over the converter, but seek advice from a professional as different makes offer different types which are safe. This may not prevent it from being stolen, but would make it more difficult and slow down the process
- Install alarms and CCTV
- Good quality lighting near to your vehicle will improve natural surveillance and can act as a deterrent.
If you see anyone acting suspiciously, or appearing to be working on a car in a public car park, please report it to us.
The cars that are most often targeted are hybrid vehicles, as the catalytic converter is used less frequently. The metals they use are less likely to corrode, meaning they are worth more.
If you have any information about these crimes, please contact us quoting reference 21*463679;
- Facebook – send us a private message to /DerbyshireConstabulary
- Twitter – direct message our contact centre on @DerPolContact
- Website – complete the online contact form derbyshire.police.uk/Contact-Us.
- Phone – call us on 101.
You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
