Metal thieves target Knutsford business

Thieves targeted four vehicles at a business in Knutsford this week, taking the catalytic converters before fleeing the scene.

Officers from Knutsford NPU are appealing for anyone who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously in or near to Greenwing Motor Company in Tabley Hill Lane, Tabley, Knutsford between 6pm on 22 August and 10am on 23 August.

The thieves gained access to the car sales lot and stole the catalytic converters from two Kia’s, a Toyota Rav 4 and a Landrover Freelander.

Inspector Steve Griffiths said: “We would urge anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area to contact us.

“We would also urge people to be vigilant – anyone who spots something that doesn’t seem quite right should contact police. You might assume someone lying underneath a vehicle is just fixing it, but they could be stealing vehicle parts.

“Most people might not notice their catalytic converter is missing until the vehicle made a louder noise than usual, so regular checks should be made and anything suspicious should be reported.

“We would also ask scrap metal dealers to be mindful if they are offered a catalytic converter or exhaust system, and if in doubt, contact police.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 0845 458 0000 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Extra prevention tips….

• People should perform regular checks on their vehicles and report anything that is suspicious; most people wouldn’t notice that their catalytic converter was missing until the vehicle made a louder noise than usual.
• Catalytic converters can be etched with a serial number or alternatively marked with identity marking water or a UV pen. There should be some form of sign or sticker on the vehicle to show that the property has been marked. If the catalytic converter is etched this will make it more difficult for the thief to sell the catalytic converter on and also make it easier for the police to trace a stolen item
• If the Catalytic converter is bolted on the bolts can be welded shut. This would not stop a determined thief but would slow them down.
• It is possible to purchase protective coverings for catalytic converters, these are quite expensive but make it much more difficult to steal the catalytic converter.
• Where possible vehicles should be parked in garages or compounds
• Giving some consideration to the way vehicles are parked could help reduce the chances of the catalytic converter. Give some consideration as to whether high and low clearance vehicles can be parked close together to make it harder for a thief to gain access and work on the catalytic converter
• Good quality lighting will improve natural surveillance and deter potential thieves as they are less likely to be able to work without being noticed.
• CCTV may also help reduce offences and any CCTV systems should be well signed.
• Thought should be given to perimeter security and fencing and gates should be kept in good order to make access difficult for offenders

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