Police are warning businesses in Lichfield and Burntwood to safeguard their vehicles following a spate of catalytic converter thefts in Staffordshire.
Offenders have struck several times, including the theft of four catalytic converters from Stafford.
The emission-controlling devices are part of the exhaust system of many cars, vans and lorries. Larger vehicles such as 4x4s, lorries and vans are especially vulnerable because their high-ground clearance means the converters are more accessible.
Workers reported the theft of three catalytic converters from low-loader vans in a compound on Astonfields Industrial Estate, Stafford, on October 17. It appears they were stolen some time over the weekend. Another business on the same industrial estate reported that a catalytic converter had been taken from a panel van on October 16.
Officers are investigating both crimes and are appealing for witnesses.
Chief Inspector Paul Trevor said: “It appears that thieves are targeting vehicles at businesses to steal catalytic converters due to their scrap metal value.
“Anyone with information about these crimes should ring Staffordshire Police on 0300 123 4455 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”
