West Mercia Police are appealing for information after a catalytic converter was stolen from a vehicle in Hereford.
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said:
“Sometime between Sunday 6th November and Tuesday 8th November a catalytic converter was stolen from a 4×4 truck in Hoarwithy Road.
“We are appealing for information. If you have seen any persons or vehicles acting suspiciously around Hoarwithy Road during those days please let us know.
“If you have information about the damage please let us know by contacting the Hereford Southside & Rural Safer Neighbourhood Team at: herefordsouthside.snt@westmercia.police.uk quoting incident number, 00084_I_08112022
“If you aren’t comfortable contacting us directly, you can pass on information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website: www.crimestoppers-uk.org
“Take steps to reduce the chances of your vehicle being targeted: please see below.
“If you can, park your vehicle in a locked garage when it is unattended.
“If it’s not possible to garage your vehicle, park it in a busy well-lit area as close to your property as possible.
“Use a catalytic converter protection device or marking system ideally approved by Secure by Design Accredited Product Search (securedbydesign.com)
“Blocking access to the underside of fleet vehicles, If you operate a small fleet, consider obstructing access to vehicles with high ground clearance by parking lower vehicles close by. Also, keep an eye out for anyone who seems to be working underneath cars nearby, they could very well be scouting out their next target vehicle.
“In order to steal the parts, thieves need to slide under the vehicle and use cutting tools to detach the box from the pipes around it. This means parking your car close to fences, walls or kerbs will make theft much more difficult.
“Catalytic converters control and convert exhaust emissions from your vehicle into less toxic substances. If yours is stolen, you will know because your vehicle’su engine will sound different.”
