Over the course of the last week, several catalytic converters have been stolen from unattended motor vehicles in Harrogate.
There have also been thefts in Ripon and Knaresborough.
Thieves are targeting vehicles for these parts due to the high value of the precious metals they contain.
Vehicles which have a high ground clearance are particularly vulnerable because of the accessibility to the catalytic converter.
To reduce risk of being targeted by thieves, North Yorkshire Police are providing the following advice:
- Park your vehicle in garage where possible
- Park your vehicle in well lit areas, if you don’t have a garage
- Report any suspicious activity to the police
- Consider marking shell of the catalytic converter with a unique reference number (so if it is stolen it can be easily traced)
Acting Sergeant Tom Barker, of Harrogate Safer Neighbourhood Team, said:
Over the past week police in Harrogate have received three reports of thefts of catalytic converters in the areas of Burke Street, Fewston Crescent and Byland Road.
With the cost of metal increasing, these types of crimes are becoming more common and therefore I am asking the public to be extra vigilant and to following our crime prevention advice.
Although the most recent thefts have been reported in Harrogate, since the beginning of 2013 there have been 14 thefts across the Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon region. Therefore my message extends to all residents in those areas.
