THIEVES are targetting specific car models to steal catalytic converters. 

There have been 1,210 thefts reported to Thames Valley Police since the start of the year. 

Investigators say they believe 'many' of them are linked. 

They have urged people to 'look closely' at those 'seemingly carrying out car repairs'.

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Criminals use a car jack to lift the car and take out the catalytic converter, which only takes a couple of minutes.

They contain a small amount of the precious metals platinum, palladium and rhodium which can be sold at high prices. 

These are the most targeted cars: 

  • Toyota Prius
  • Toyota Auris
  • Honda Jazz
  • Honda Civic
  • Honda CRVs
  • Lexus RX400

Detective Superintendent Jim Weems, Head of Intelligence, said: “We are taking these offences seriously and investigating in our efforts to identify and arrest offenders.

“It appears there are a number of factors contributing to the increase in the theft of catalytic converters from vehicles. Significantly, they contain precious metals, from which criminals are profiting.

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“Not only does it cause distress and inconvenience, it is likely to cost victims to replace it and repair any damage to the vehicle.

“You may see what appears to be people carrying out repairs or work to a car but please look closely and report any suspicious activity to us immediately. Within moments, the catalytic converter may be gone. If you see such a crime in progress, please call 999 immediately.”

Police tips to deter thieves:

  • Park in a locked garage or well-lit area close to your house
  • Park close to fences, walls and kerbs with the exhaust closest to the barrier to make it difficult for the thieves
  • Avoid mounting car on the kerb or parking at the end of a row because this gives easy access
  • If your catalytic converter is bolted ask the garage to weld the bolts
  • Consider a 'cage clamp' which locks around the converter
  • Look to buy a tilt sensor that activates the alarm if somebody tries to jack up the car or tilt it.

In an emergency always call 999, in a non-emergency phone 101.