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Halifax Regional Police is making the public aware of a number of thefts of catalytic converters throughout the region in recent months.
A catalytic converter is an exhaust emission control device located under the vehicle between the muffler and the manifold. Catalytic converters are made of precious metals, which can make them valuable as scrap metal. Thieves stealing catalytic converters can act quickly and precisely, and these thefts can take place in under a minute. Thieves need access to the underside of vehicles and often use cordless reciprocating saws, which will create a loud grinding noise.
HRP is asking the public to be mindful of the following potential signs and report any suspicious activity:
- Vehicles going into businesses when they appear to be closed.
- Vehicles parked in dimly lit areas or secluded areas, especially during off hours.
- People who appear to be hiding from passing traffic or looking into or under vehicles.
- Grinding noises, as thieves may be using reciprocating saws to detach the converter.
Anyone with information about these thefts is asked to call police at 902-490-5020. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling toll-free 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca or using the P3 Tips App.
