VEHICLE owners are being urged to be vigilant following a spate of catalytic converter thefts in Bishop's Stortford.
A Mercedes Sprinter van parked at the rear of Fyfe Wilson & Co in Raynham Road was the latest to be stripped of the part when thieves struck overnight last Monday (Feb 6). The culprits removed the van’s nearside front window to pop the bonnet.
It was taken just two days after another Mercedes van was targeted in London Road.
The incidents are among an increasingly number that have occurred countywide in recent weeks, with officers from Herts Constabulary's specialist metal theft taskforce saying industrial estates are being particularly targeted.
Operation Devon has been set up to combat metal thieves and work more closely with scrap metal dealers.
Detective Chief Inspector Liz Hanlon, who leads the Operation Devon team, said: “Metal theft, in particular the theft of catalytic converters, is an issue across the country and, in Hertfordshire, is one we are working hard to tackle.
“Not only do we have Safer Neighbourhood Teams working with their local scrap dealers to improve processes and tackle anyone looking to sell on stolen metal, but we have recently set up a metal theft taskforce to work with partners and tackle cross-border criminals.
“Residents and local businesses can help too by reporting any suspicious behaviour in progress in their neighbourhood via 999 – with catalytic converter theft in particular, look out for people hanging around vehicles at unusual times, and make sure you make use of your drive or a garage if you have one.
“We’re also experiencing a rise in theft of number plates generally and theft of tools from vans so the message extends to everyone to be vigilant, secure your vehicles and report suspicious activity straight away.”
