By Warning to Watford residents as thieves target vehicles
Officers for Hertfordshire Constabulary have issued a warning to residents in Watford, Three Rivers, and St Albans as thieves target vehicles.
There have been numerous reports of catalytic converts being stolen in and around Watford.
Police are therefore warning drivers and businesses to protect and secure their vehicles, as criminals continue to target vehicles across the country.
Catalytic converters, which are fitted to vehicle exhaust systems, are targeted by thieves because of the precious metals they contain. Due to where these units are located on the vehicle they are difficult to access and removal causes costly damage.
Inspector Nicola Dean, from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s crime reduction unit, said:
“Despite the lockdown, thieves are continuing to target specific models such as the pre 2008 Honda Jazz, Toyota Prius (2004 to 2016 inclusive) and Toyota Arius (2012 to 2018 inclusive). They are also breaking in to steal valuable items left on display.
“We will be offering our catalytic converter security marking service again once things return to normal.
“In the meantime, we 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.”
You can also visit the Hertfordshire Constabulary website for further advice on crime prevention.
Contact Gi Watford
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