Police fear vehicles in the borough could be targeted following a spate of thefts this year.
Since May 11, catalytic converters have been stolen from cars, vans and 4x4s across the town. Officers believe the parts are then being sold for scrap, which can have a high value due to a small amount of precious metal inside used during the filtering process.
Vehicle owners are being advised, where possible, to park in a garage or secure compound, preferably well lit and monitored by CCTV. If this is not possible then try to park the vehicle in a well lit area. Police are also urging residents to etch a serial number onto the converter so it can be traced if stolen.
Basingstoke and Deane District Commander, Chief Inspector Andy Bottomley, said: “This is a growing problem and whoever is stealing these catalytic converters is organised and probably checking out likely vehicles to target. In some cases compounds have been broken into overnight to get access to works vehicles, but also people’s vans and cars have been targeted outside their homes. The cost of replacing a converter can be more than £1,000, but the impact is much wider as the vehicles has to spend time off the road being repaired and this can have a devastating effect on individuals and businesses who rely on their vehicles.”
Anyone with information contact Basingstoke police station on 101 or by calling the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.
