THEFT OF CATALYTIC CONVERTERS IN AYLESBURY VALE

Do you own a Toyota, Honda, Mazda, Lexus or BMW vehicle? Thames Valley Police is urging owners of vehicles (particularly the most commonly targeted ones listed above) to take additional security measures following an increasing number of thefts of catalytic converters in Aylesbury Vale, most recently in the area of Quarrendon.

In most cases, offenders use car jacks to lift the vehicle and are able to remove the catalytic converter in a matter of minutes. There is usually a loud drilling or cutting sound coming from underneath the vehicle. If you see/ hear this please CALL POLICE IMMEDIATELY on 999 and DO NOT APPROACH them. Please do not assume they are working on a broken down vehicle.
Please see attached:
https://orlo.uk/G8NNd

The following advice is provided for all vehicle owners.

Defensive Parking – Where possible park in your garage. If not try to park next to a high curb or other area that restricts access underneath your vehicle on the side where the exhaust is fitted. If possible, park in a well lit area or consider security lighting. When parking in a car park avoid parking at the end of a row if possible to make access more difficult for offenders.

CCTV – Consider installing a CCTV system to cover your vehicle as a deterrent.

Welded Bolts - If your catalytic converter is a “bolt on” it is possible to have the bolts welded shut.

Catalytic Converter Protective Sleeves/clamps – Consider fitting a specialist protective cover or clamp to your vehicle to make life more difficult for an offender. Contact your vehicle dealership for options.

Alarm System – Consider fitting a specific catalytic converter alarm to warn of any tamper attempts. Some alarms can send a text message to your phone and activate a siren and flashing lights. If possible, choose a Thatcham approved product https://orlo.uk/LpfUO some alarms can also provide lift and tilt detection that offer effective protection.

Identify/etch your converter - Consider permanently marking your catalytic converter to make it less desirable for criminals to steal and sell on. The RetainaGroup offer a kit consisting of a virtually indestructible sticker, metal marking fluid and a window sticker (to warn thieves that the catalytic converter carries an identification mark). Each mark contains a seven-digit code and a 24 hour telephone number for the International Security Register who store the code against vehicle details. A catalytic marking kit can be ordered from the following secure link: https://orlo.uk/1NPvn or by phoning 01233 333000.

Set up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme in your area -through Neighbourhood Watch you can help the Police and your neighbours to strengthen your community. You can make your area a better place to live. The scheme is free to join

If you are concerned, want to see what the offence looks like or wish to discuss this further, come visit the Aylesbury South Neighbourhood Team at Stoke Mandeville Hospital on the 24/01/2023.