Catalytic Converter Taken From Vehicle in Ansley Common
Some time over night (1st/2nd August), unknown offender(s) stole the catalytic converter from a vehicle in Ansley Common. If you saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area or have any information that could assist the police with their enquiries please call 101 and refer to inc 198 of 2/8/20 or email ruralwatch@Warwickshire.pnn.police.uk.
Crime Prevention Advice:
Most vehicles have catalytic converters, which can be stolen for the value of the precious metals or illegally re-sold.
Thieves tend to target hybrid cars – including models such as the Toyota Prius, Honda Jazz and Lexus – as the value of their converter is higher and they can be accessed more easily with a jack.
The simplest way to prevent catalytic converter theft is to put your vehicle in a garage or secured area if you have one. Alarms, lighting and CCTV can also help to deter thieves.
Other ways to protect your vehicle include:
- buying and fitting a protection device specifically to cover the catalytic converter
- installing motion-activated lighting if you park your vehicle on a driveway, but if this isn’t possible, park it in a well-lit, busy area
- using your vehicle’s alarm or installing a Thatcham approved alarm, which should activate if the vehicle is tilted or lifted
- ensuring your dashcam is set to detect movement
- looking out for anyone ‘working’ or acting suspiciously under vehicles (particularly in busy car parks)
In addition, if you are going to be visiting somewhere for a long period of time (e.g. a supermarket), we would advise you to park so it is difficult for thieves to lift your vehicle.
Marking kits can also be purchased, which alls/immovable objects makes it harder for the thieves to lift the vehicle. Also, marking kits are available. Marking can assist police investigations as converters can be tracked back to the vehicle they came from if located.
Please call 101 to report any incident and always dial 999 if you see a crime in action.
For further advice and information go to our websites at www.warwickshire.police.uk or www.warwickshireruralwatch.co.uk.
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