Criminals target catalytic converters in Selby village

Police are appealing for information after two men tried to remove catalytic converters in a village near Selby.

It happened on Butts Lane, South Milford at 3.30am on Tuesday (16 August).

The suspects tried vehicle door handles before crawling under a car with an angle grinder to try to remove the catalytic converter.

Police want to speak to two men pictured on CCTV as part of their investigation.

Both are described as young, slim and approximately 6ft tall.

One had short hair with a floppy fringe pushed to the side. The second was wearing a distinctive face mask and had a thick chain around his neck.

They were both wearing dark trainers with reflective strips.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should email [email protected]. You can also call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for PC Matla.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Please quote the North Yorkshire Police reference number NYP-16082022-0147

PC Matla said: "Catalytic converters are devices fitted to vehicle exhausts to reduce the amount of dangerous gases emitted. They are often targeted by thieves as they contain valuable metals and can be removed in less than a minute.

"Catalytic converter theft most frequently occurs in car parks, but they can happen anywhere.

"Thieves may then sell these converters via scrapyards, online, or ship them out of the country. Although catalytic converter thefts are increasing, there are steps that you can take to protect your vehicle.

"To keep your catalytic converter safe, you can ask your car dealer for advice on locks or guards that are approved by the vehicle manufacturer.

"Alternatively, try to make sure your vehicle is parked in a garage overnight, or if you have a commercial vehicle, park it in a secure compound. If this isn’t possible, park in an area that’s well-lit and overlooked and try to park so that the converter can’t be easily reached by potential thieves.

"Vehicles that sit high above the road are particularly vulnerable.

"You can also consider buying a forensic liquid which you can use to mark it, which will make it harder for thieves to dispose of."