RCMP ask for vigilance as catalytic converter thefts jump in Central Okanagan

Almost 80 drivers in the Central Okanagan have had their catalytic converters stolen so far this year.

Since Jan. 1, 78 have been reported stolen in the regional between Lake Country and Peachland, according to a media release from Kelowna RCMP, which said that thefts of the particular car part are also up across B.C.

“As is often the case, our biggest investigational asset are vigilant community members,” Const. Mike Della-Paolera said in the release.

“Surveillance footage is an immensely helpful resource that we lean on for identifying suspects and their patterns that can lead to an arrest. If a thief knows they’re being recorded and the whole neighbourhood is on the lookout, they’ll be more likely to change their plans."

Catalytic converters reduce the amount of pollution caused by vehicle exhaust, and they contain a small amount of precious metal which makes them a target for thieves.

READ MORE: B.C. announces new regulations to curb catalytic converter thefts

Della-Paolera said in an email it's become a trend because there are people willing to pay for stolen catalytic converters, there is an abundance of targets and it's very difficult to trace the items back to their rightful owners.

"The converter is not marked with a serial number or other identifying marks," he said.

Removing them typically requires a person to make a lot of noise.

“If you find yourself waking up to the sound of power tools in the early hours of the morning and spot a suspicious person underneath a car, don’t hesitate to call the police,” the release read.

Thefts of catalytic converter thefts can be reduced by parking in a garage, if possible parking somewhere well-lit, using motion censored lights if a vehicle is parked in a driveway and by keeping a watchful eye around the neighbourhood, RCMP recommend.

Anyone who has surveillance footage or information about these catalytic converter thefts are asked to call Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300. Members of the public can also contact Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or leave a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net.

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