Flurry of catalytic converter thefts in broad daylight in Bishop's Stortford

Police in Bishop’s Stortford have been alerted to the thefts of catalytic converters from four vehicles – two of which were stolen from a supermarket car park in the same afternoon.

A thief removed the exhaust emission control devices from a Toyota and a Honda at Tesco on the Bishop’s Park estate on Friday November 27 between 2pm and 3.15pm.

Another Toyota was targeted in broad daylight in Northolt Avenue on the Parsonage estate. The crook caused £1,300 damage.

The fourth cat-con was taken from another Toyota – a Yaris – while it was parked outside Priory House in Birchwood Mews, off Parsonage Lane, between the afternoon of Saturday November 21 and 12.15pm on Wednesday November 25.

The past year has seen an increase in thefts of these car parts because they contain precious metals which fetch a high price.

Inspector Nicki Dean, from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s crime reduction unit, said: “Over the past year we've seen a big rise in thieves stealing catalytic convertors. They're particularly targeting specific hybrid models such as the pre-2008 Honda Jazz, Toyota Prius (2004-2016) and Toyota Auris (2012-2018).

“We launched Operation Feline in July to help drivers protect their vehicles, working with garages around the county to offer free catalytic converter security marking.

"We would also urge the public to follow our advice, remain vigilant and report incidents of suspected catalytic converter theft, particularly where people are trying to get under cars in public car parks or on public roads. If you see this happening, please call 999 immediately.”

Herts Constabulary has issued the following advice to help deter catalytic converter thieves:

• Lock your car when it is left unattended and keep it in a garage at night if possible.
• If using a garage is not possible, park close to a fence, wall or kerb, with the exhaust closest to the fence, wall or kerb.
• Fit CCTV on your home or driveway.
• Use PIR or LED security lighting to make your vehicle more visible.
• If your catalytic converter is bolted on, have the bolts welded.
• Fit protective coverings on catalytic converters, such as the Toyota manufactured CATLOC device (these are made for Toyota Prius made between 2004 and 2009).
• Have your catalytic converter etched or forensically marked, and put stickers in the windscreen to say this has been done.
• Look for car parks with a Secured Car Park sign which have recognised levels of security.
• Gravel on your drive can help deter a would-be thief, as they don't want to alert you to their approach.
• Never leave valuable items or tools on display in your vehicle as this may encourage a thief to break in.