More than 230 catalytic converters were stolen across Richmond in the first nine months of 2021, according to Richmond Mounties.
In total, 238 catalytic converters were stolen in the city as of the end of September.
“Victims all across the city have reported catalytic converter thefts from all makes and models of vehicles — from small cars to pick-up trucks, cargo vans, large trucks and buses,” said Cpl. Ian Henderson, in a statement.
Catalytic converters, which help reduce pollution from a vehicle’s exhaust system, are sought after by thieves because of precious metals in their components.
Richmond RCMP noted there’s been a recent rash of such thefts that “extends well beyond the borders of Richmond” and it is working with partners across the Lower Mainland on the issue.
Vancouver police, for example, said they have received 425 reports of catalytic converter thefts between Jan. 1 and Oct. 5, compared to a total of 204 thefts in 2020.
In one incident earlier this month in East Vancouver, a 41-year-old woman was pepper sprayed when she confronted the suspect stealing the catalytic converter on her vehicle.
In West Vancouver, police reported that as of August there had been 18 catalytic converter thefts in that city, compared to just five in 2020.
Coquitlam and North Vancouver RCMP have also recently issued warnings of such thefts.
Henderson said that, as with other property-related offences, catalytic converter thefts are “crimes of opportunity.”
“Thieves prey on those vehicles left unattended or unwatched for long periods of time, day or night. They prey on vehicles they can hang around and climb under without being noticed.”
Richmond RCMP has several active investigations ongoing and a “number of suspects” have been identified.
To discourage thieves, Richmond Mounties said people should park, when possible, in limited-access, gated locations with video surveillance. When parking on the street or un-fenced locations, drivers should choose well-lit areas where there is some pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
Police are also recommending people check on their vehicles often and move them occasionally. A vehicle left in one spot with leaves, mold, expired license plates and flat tires indicates no one is watching it.
In addition, people should consider installing good lighting and video surveillance in parking areas outside residences and businesses, Mounties said.
Anyone with information on catalytic converter thefts in Richmond is urged to call Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212. If an incident is on-going, call 9-1-1.
- With files from Brent Richter, North Shore News
