London police say there has been a sharp increase in the number of thefts involving catalytic converters in the city.
According to police, there have been 79 such thefts since September 1. Police say that represents a nearly 50 per cent increase when compared with the number of catalytic converter thefts in all of 2019. Most of the thefts occurred in the downtown core, along Highbury Avenue between Oxford Street and Brydges Street, and in parking lots in the area of Adelaide Street South and Commissioners Road East.
"If you notice that your catalytic converter is missing, notify the police as soon as possible," police said in a news release issued Wednesday. "If you are missing your converter, you will hear a loud roaring or rumbling sound when you turn on your vehicle. The sound will get louder as you put your foot on the gas pedal. The catalytic converter is a round canister that connects the piping in the exhaust. You will notice a space in the middle of your exhaust if the converter is missing."
Catalytic converters contain valuable material that is often sold as scrap.
Police are reminding drivers to park in garages, well-lit areas, or close to a building entrance or road whenever possible. They also recommend installing lighting and security cameras outside your home.
"If you hear suspicious noises in parking lots such as the sound of electrical tools being used or see someone under a vehicle, please call police immediately," police said.
