Richmond RCMP is warning the public to look out for suspicious activity underneath vehicles – after a spike in thefts of catalytic converters.
The catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system in all modern combustion engine-equipped vehicles.
There have been over 13 reported catalytic converter thefts in Richmond since June.
They are located underneath vehicles and cost several thousand dollars, due to the precious metals used to make them.
Police say thieves are stealing them either for resale or to recycle the precious metals used in their construction.
They are warning the community to be on alert for any suspicious people that may be working underneath parked vehicles.
They may be using a power saw or torch to remove the catalytic convertors and sparks or flames may be present.
The Richmond RCMP Crime Prevention Unit has been reaching out to businesses and the community to provide education of this type of crime.
And Richmond RCMP patrol officers and officers from the Property Crime Unit and Prolific Offender Suppression Team are all actively searching for the thieves.
The RCMP is asking people to report suspicious activity immediately.
