Police have warned about a rise in catalytic converter thefts from vehicles, and are distributing Smart Water kits at local beat surgeries which could deter thieves.
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The increase in these thefts is believed to be linked to rising prices of metals like rhodium and palladium, both of which are found in catalytic converters.
Thieves can remove these converters in minutes with basic tools, but police advise that the following steps can help to protect cars:
- Know the location of your catalytic converter; park accordingly.
- Avoid parking with part of your vehicle on the pavement.
- Secure your converter by welding the bolts or etching a serial number.
- Consider adding a tilt sensor to trigger the alarm if a thief tries to jack up your car.
Additionally, residents can obtain Smart Water kits at local beat surgeries. These contain a traceable liquid, making it difficult for stolen converters to be sold on, and easier to return recovered ones to their owners.
Residents can get Smart Water kits at the following locations:
- Sainsburys, Portswood Road, Saturday 14 October, 10am-12pm
- Highfield Church, Highfield Lane, Tuesday 10 October, 7pm-8.30pm
- Harefield Hub, Mlechet Road, Thursday 16 October, 2pm-3pm
- Townhill Park Community Centre, Meggeson Avenue, Monday 18 December, 6.30pm-7.30pm
Southampton North Inspector Brian Goodall urged residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity to the police. Scrap metal dealers were also asked to report any attempts to sell stolen catalytic converters.
There’s more information about catalytic converter thefts on the Crimestoppers website, where information about crime can also be given anonymously.
Image: public domain