Watch out for the cat thieves

Police are appealing for information and witnesses following 67 thefts of catalytic converters from high clearance vehicles in north and mid-Essex since August 1, 2010.


Photo: Crime Reduction Advisor Stephen Armson-Smith marks a catalytic converter

Chief Inspector Nick Lee said: “There is clearly a group or groups of criminals currently stealing catalytic converters, usually overnight, and operating primarily in Braintree, Uttlesford and Chelmsford districts. 

"Essex Police is determined to catch these criminals and bring them to justice.  It is likely that the catalytic converters are being stolen for the value of their metal. 

“Nearly all of the thefts have occurred from high clearance vehicles, where there’s considerable space enabling thieves to get under the cars.  These include Landrovers, Ford Rangers, Ford Galaxies, Toyota Landcruisers, the Kia Sportage, Jeep Cherokees and the Iveco Daily. I would urge anyone who owns such a vehicle to park it as safely as possible, ideally in a garage, and to keep an eye out for anyone behaving suspiciously near the vehicle.  Please report any suspicious activity to Essex Police by calling 0300 3334444.”

Between August 1 and September 9, 2010, there have been 67 thefts of catalytic converters in Essex Police Central division, which comprises the districts of Uttlesford, Braintree, Chelmsford and Maldon. 

The number of thefts of catalytic converters during this period breaks down as follows: Chelmsford district, 11 thefts – 8 of which are from privately owned vehicles and 3 from business premises; Braintree district, 46 thefts – 31 of which are from privately owned vehicles and 15 from business premises; Uttlesford district, 8 thefts – 3 of which are from private owned vehicles and 5 from business premises; Maldon district, 2 thefts – one private, one business.

Stephen Armson-Smith, Crime Reduction Advisor for Braintree district, said: “Should you be unfortunate enough to suffer the theft of your catalytic converter, please ask the garage to allow you to retain the cut area of the exhaust when you are getting it replaced, as Essex Police may then be able to make a mechanical match on any recovered converter.

“It is also possible to have the bolts fixing the catalytic converter welded shut, and to have a cage built around it making it much harder for the thieves to steal it.  Essex Police also advises motorists to have their catalytic converter etched with a unique identifying number.  Details can be found by contacting your local Crime Reduction Advisor by calling 0300 3334444 or visiting the website: www.retainagroup.com  .”

 

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