The process of stealing a catalytic converter can be carried out in as little as 60 seconds with high power tools.

Increase of catalytic converter thefts began in late 2018, however, during the pandemic of this year the numbers seemed to have dwindled. But now, they have risen again.

In contrast to 2018 - 2019, catalytic converter thefts were recorded at 278; since then 2019 - 2020 has seen a sharp rise to 618 recorded thefts.

Now Leicestershire Police has launched a campaign to make drivers aware of the issue after a number of incidents across the force area.

The force will be will be installing bold warning signs in hotspot locations to warn drivers, will be promoting how to reduce the risk of being targeted on social media channels and via Neighbourhood Link and is working with a number of garages to offer free security marking for catalytic convertors.

The theft of catalytic converters can happen anytime day or night via typical locations such as:

• Car parks - typically Supermarkets
• Driveways
• On street parking.

Thieves cut the catalytic converter from the exhaust pipe of a parked car and sell them on for profit.

Taller vehicles (4x4s) are particularly vulnerable as the converters are more accessible and because they tend to have larger engines, contain more of the precious metals.

Detective Chief Inspector Reme Gibson said: "We have seen a rise in catalytic converter thefts around the force area. Predominantly, these crimes tend to occur in supermarket car parks and private driveways.

"Any vehicle can be subject to catalytic converter theft, however Toyota Auris, Toyota Prius, Honda Jazz and Honda Accord are known to be more vulnerable to this type of theft. We urge vehicle owners to take measures when parking and reduce the risk of theft."

To reduce the risk of theft of your car's catalytic converter:

• Park your car in a garage or somewhere that makes it difficult for anyone to access its underside
• Install CCTV that captures where you park
• Don't park your car in one place for long periods of time
• Secure your catalytic converter with extra bolts to make it more difficult to remove
• Try defensive parking against a wall or by another lower vehicle to make it more difficult to get under
• Have a mechanic weld the catalytic converter to the exhaust system
• Park your car in lit up areas or on busy areas
• When you book in for your next MOT, service, ask your *local garage to fit the marking kit onto your vehicle for FREE!

List of garages participating within the scheme:

Brookside, 1 Cannock Street, Leicester, LE4 9HR

Euro Tyres, 68 Barkby Road, Leicester, LE4 9LF

The force is seeking to work with more garages as the campaign progresses. » Less