Police warn of converter thefts

Police have warned car owners to be vigilant following a spate of catalytic converter thefts in Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire.

Leicestershire has seen about 60 of the thefts in the last year. Car parks in Loughborough and Market Harborough have also been targeted by gangs.

Derbyshire Police said vehicles in retail parks around Derby had been struck recently.

In Nottinghamshire, the Newark area has been a particular target.

'Tremendous audacity'

Car owner Dave Bull said his converter was stolen in broad daylight while he visited a supermarket in Derby.

"They've just got a tremendous amount of audacity... to feel as though they just wouldn't be questioned.

"When I reported it to the police, they told me I was the second person that day who had reported the same thing," he said.

Pc Steve Day of Leicestershire Police said: "They [thieves] come along with implements to cut the catalytic converters off cars.

"They are conducting the removal within a few seconds and then they're taking them and trading the metals in, which contain precious metals such as platinum, for a quick return of cash."

Police say 4x4 vehicles and vans are particular targets.