BC Mounties warn motorists about surge in thefts of catalytic converters

A police detachment in British Columbia is warning residents about an increase in thefts of catalytic converters from vehicles.

Richmond RCMP said they are aware of 13 such thefts since June.

Catalytic converters are part of the exhaust system of most vehicles that have a combustion engine.

They are found underneath vehicles.

The devices contain precious metals and can cost several thousand dollars to replace.

Mounties said they are being sold whole or recycled for the metals.

They are warning people to be on guard for suspicious people working underneath parked vehicles.

“They may be using a powered saw or torch to remove the catalytic convertors,” officers explained.

“Sparks or flames may be present as thieves use tools to remove the converters. Pickup trucks are often the targets of this type of theft.”