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Mission RCMP warn of catalytic converter thefts in east Mission

Several reports made to police from Hawkins Pickle Road area
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Catalytic converters contain valuable and rare materials such as platinum and rhodium, making them a target for theft. Photo courtesy of Mission RCMP.

Mission RCMP are warning the public about a rise of catalytic converter thefts in east Mission, near the Hawkins Pickle Road area.

Several reports have been made to police from owners who’ve had the pricey parts cut from their vehicle, causing damage.

“The thieves may be targeting parked, unoccupied vehicles of those taking advantage of the seasonal fishing in that area,” said Cpl. Jason Raaflaub, media officer with the Mission RCMP.

“Generally they are quick and easy to cut from the exhaust pipes under a vehicle.”

There were a total of eight such thefts over the month of October, with three happening in daylight to vehicle owners who had parked to go fishing, Raaflaub said.

Catalytic converters contain valuable and rare materials such as platinum and rhodium, making them a target for theft.

Mission RCMP suggest parking your vehicle in a locked garage or well-lit area, parking in the vicinity of CCTV cameras, consider mounting a metal shroud around the part called a “cat shield,” welding the converter’s mounting bolt directly to the vehicle’s undercarriage, or etching a name or plate number onto to it.

They request any further thefts to be reported to their non-emergency line: 604-826-7161.

RELATED: Giant M&M stolen from Mission candy shop, recovered thanks to vigilant neighbours


@portmoodypigeon
patrick.penner@missioncityrecord.com

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