Over recent months the Burnaby RCMP have noticed an increase in catalytic converter thefts, similar to that being reported by other lower mainland jurisdictions.
We are noticing it with increasing frequency in industrial areas where there are a higher number of vans and pick-up trucks. Industrial areas are less populated during the evenings and weekends when most of these thefts are occurring. This makes these areas especially vulnerable to crime.
Recently, Burnaby RCMP Crime Prevention volunteers were out helping educate the public with crime prevention tips to help combat the theft of catalytic converters. They will also be reaching out to local businesses to discuss the vulnerability of their vehicles.
Some of those tips:
Install, weld & bolt a wire cage around the converter to the underside of the motor vehicle.
Have your license plate number or VIN etched into the converter.
Install catalytic security devices (Catstrap or CatClamp).
Park in a garage or inside a secure, well lit fenced area equipped with surveillance cameras.
The average price for a used catalytic converter at a scrap yard is between $75 and $500. In contrast, the replacement cost to the owner could be thousands of dollars depending on the vehicle.
These thefts are very costly to vehicle owners and we would ask scrap metal dealers to think twice before purchasing a catalytic converter from an individual who is unable to explain its origins says Burnaby RCMP spokesperson Corporal Daniela Panesar.
Anyone with information relating to these thefts is asked to contact the Burnaby RCMP at (604)646-9999. Should you wish to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at www.solvecrime.ca.