Rotherham catalytic converter thefts soar

ROTHERHAM scrap thieves are targeting car exhausts for precious metals contained in their catalytic converters, South Yorkshire Police have warned.

The devices contain platinum, gold and nickel—all of which have recently surged in price.

South Yorkshire Police say thieves are cutting them from cars in seconds.

Cars with a high ground clearance are especially vulnerable as are larger vehicles, because these tend to have bigger converters with more precious metal inside.

Thieves will earn between £50 an £250 for each device sold to scrap metal dealers.

So far there have been 17 reported instances of converter theft this year, compared with 17 throughout the whole of 2011 and 10 in 2010.

Acting Det Sgt Jamie Henderson, who leads Rotherham’s metal theft police team, said: “If someone drives without a catalytic convertor they'll hear an excessively loud revving like a racing car.

“It can also be very dangerous as fumes may start to come into the vehicle.”

He advised motorists to park in a garage or well-lit area where possible and to look out for suspicious people working under cars.

Marking converters with a unique mark would help police trace them should they be stolen, he added.

Anyone with information about the theft of catalytic convertors or other metal is urged to contact police on non-emergency number 101, or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

READ MORE