Police Scotland warns Highland motorists after increase in reports of catalytic converter thefts
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A SPATE of catalytic converter thefts have sparked police appeals for motorists to do everything they can to avoid becoming a victim.
Officers in the Highlands warned that the devices are proving increasingly attractive to thieves to the precious metals they contain.
And they have urged owners of hybrid vehicles to be extra aware – as the nature of their vehicles means the metals inside their converters are often in better condition and more attractive to criminals.
Van and SUV owners are also being urged to keep a wary eye on their vehicles, as their higher ground clearance also makes them a more tempting target.
A spokesman said: "We've seen an increase in catalytic converter thefts recently, they can be attractive items to thieves, due to the precious metals they contain (rhodium, platinum, palladium).
"Hybrid vehicles are frequently targeted as they have two power sources, therefore the converter is used less frequently and the metals less corroded.
"Vans and SUVs are particularly at risk, as their high clearance makes access to the exhaust system easier."
To reduce the risk of theft officers are advising:
- Park in a locked garage where possible, alternatively choose a well-lit, populated area ideally with CCTV.
- Avoid parking half on the pavement and half on the road, this will make it easier for thieves to access the converter.
- In car parks, park alongside other vehicles and face the bonnet towards a wall if possible, to make accessing the cat converter more difficult.
- Vehicles with low clearance could be used to block access to those with high clearance.
- Welding the bolts securing the cat converter may make removal more difficult.
- Consider using forensic property marking kits (Selectamark / Catloc) which help deter theft and identify stolen cat converters
- Fit a ‘catloc’ (Secured By Design accredited) to prevent removal of a cat converter
- Fit a tilt sensor which will activate the car alarm should the vehicle be jacked up.
For more information, visit Polcie Scotland's website at www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/road-safety/protecting-your-car or visit Secured by Design, Catloc or Selectamark's advice pages.
If you see anyone acting suspiciously near to your property or vehicles contact the police immediately with as detailed a description as possible of any person(s) or vehicle(s) involved. Call ‘999’ if an emergency and urgent police assistance is required or 101 to report the matter to the police.
