Spate of catalytic converter thefts in Suffolk- residents urged to protect their vehicles

OWNERS OF trucks and vans in Stowmarket beware. Since December there have been 52 catalytic converters stolen from these types of vehicles in West Suffolk.

The catalytic converters are being stolen because of the rise in value of scrap metal. In total the ones taken from vehicles in West Suffolk come to the value of £52,000. This excludes the money victims and businesses have had to fork out to have their vehicle towed to a garage for repair.

Suffolk Police are so concerned about these thefts that on Tuesday 22nd February officers from their safer neighbourhood team will be at Truck East in Stowmarket marking the catalytic converters of trucks and vans.

The catalytic converters will be engraved or stamped with with the owner's postcode and also marked with heat-resistant silver paint. Drivers will also receive signs for their vehicles to warn criminals that their catalytic converter is identifiable if stolen. Detective Inspector Andy Footer urged Stowmarket's van and truck owners to take advantage of the free session which will run from 10am-4pm.

Detective Inspector Footer said: "With metal prices remaining high, I would encourage all drivers of utility or commercial vehicles to come to the marking session and make your catalytic converter unattractive to criminals."

For those unable make the session the police have issued advice about protecting your vehicle. They suggest:

• Keeping your vehicle in a well-secured garage or well-lit public area.
• Parking your vehicle in a way that makes it difficult for thieves to reach the catalytic converter.
• Using alarms, lighting and CCTV cameras to deter the thieves.
• Removing items of value from your vehicle when you leave it unattended.
• Always locking your vehicle.

What do you think of the advice from Suffolk Police? Will you be paying a visit to Truck East this Tuesday?

Picture: Mzacha