Coquitlam RCMP warn of continued increase in catalytic converter thefts

Coquitlam

2021-09-27 07:51 PDT

The Coquitlam RCMP is warning the community of an increase in the number of reported catalytic converter thefts from vehicles.

Catalytic converters are part of a vehicle’s exhaust system that were first used in the mid 1970’s. The purpose of the converter is to make car exhaust from internal combustion engines less toxic. The car part is targeted for the precious metals (rhodium, palladium and platinum) contained inside, says Cst. Deanna Law, Media Relations Officer for the Coquitlam RCMP. The price of these metals has significantly increased over the years resulting in an increase in theft.

Here are some tips to help catch thieves and avoid being a victim:

• Install good lighting and functional security cameras that you know how to use,
• Park your vehicles in well-lit areas in view of security cameras,
• If possible, use a locked garage or compound to park your vehicles overnight,
• Watch for suspicious electrical tool noises and people under cars- especially late at night or in isolated parking lots,
• Call 911 if you think you see a crime in progress,
• Report all catalytic converter theft (or attempted theft) to the police as soon as possible.

The Coquitlam RCMP Property Crime Unit (PCT) and Uniformed Crime Reduction Unit (UCRU) are actively investigating reported catalytic converter thefts and searching for these thieves. If you see a crime in progress, call 911 immediately. To report a crime after the fact, please call the Coquitlam RCMP non-emergency line, call 604-945-1550.

Released by:
Cst. Deanna Law
Media Relations Officer
Coquitlam RCMP
604-945-1580
 

Released by

Coquitlam RCMP Media Relations

Email: coquitlam_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

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