Warning after spate of catalytic converter thefts

Police are urging motorists across West Mercia to be vigilant following several catalytic converter thefts in Worcestershire and Shropshire yesterday and early this morning.

In a statement, West Mercia Police said: "While we are working hard to prevent such crimes and we continue our investigations to find those responsible, there are some simple steps motorists can take to try and reduce the chance of their vehicle being targeted by thieves.

If you do notice any suspicious activity where individuals are pulling up next to cars and interfering with a vehicle, we would ask you to get in touch with us as soon as possible."

It can take a thief less than three minutes to remove a catalytic converter from its housing on the car exhaust pipe but below are a number of ways the public can protect their property and their 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 
• You should also register your converter and mark it with a forensic marker, which will make it harder for thieves to dispose of.