A CATALYTIC converter has been stolen from a vehicle in Worcester after police warn of an increase in thefts throughout the county.

The vehicle was parked on Berkeley Street when a loud grinding sound was heard between 2am and 3am on Friday, November 5.

After checking the vehicle, the catalytic converter had been removed and stolen.

Police are investigating the theft, and also criminal damage to the vehicle, and are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

READ MORE: Catalytic converter thefts are increasing in Worcestershire

According to the police, there has been a recent increase in the theft of catalytic converters from vehicles in South Worcestershire

Catalytic converters control and convert exhaust emissions from your vehicle into less toxic substances. If yours is stolen, you will know because your vehicle’s engine will sound different.

This is due to a rise in the value of the precious metals they contain, with thieves usually targeting vehicles such as vans and 4x4s.

The reason these vehicles are targeted is due to a higher ground clearance, which makes the converters more easily accessible, but all types of vehicles are still considered as vulnerable.

Due to the increase in thefts, West Mercia Police has posted steps to take in order to reduce the chances of theft occurring. 

  • Park your vehicle in a locked garage when it is unattended, or a busy well-lit area as close to your property as possible.
  • Consider installing a Thatcham-approved alarm to your vehicle. 
  • Use a catalytic converter protection device or marking system ideally approved by Secure by Design Accredited Product Search.
  • Blocking access to the underside of fleet vehicles by parking lower vehicles close by.
  • Keep an eye out for anyone who seems to be working underneath cars nearby.
  • Park your car close to fences, walls or kerbs to make theft much more difficult.

READ MORE: Worcester's Christmas lights will be switched on November 26

If you have information about this incident, you can let the police know using the online ‘Tell Us About’ form on the website www.westmercia.police.uk, quoting incident reference 0057_I_05112022.

Alternatively, you can pass on information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website: www.crimestoppers-uk.org