London police cruiser. (File photo by Miranda Chant, Blackburn News)London police cruiser. (File photo by Miranda Chant, Blackburn News)
London

Thieves Targeting Catalytic Converters In London

If you drive a Honda CRV in London, you may want to keep a close eye on your catalytic converter.

London police say since the beginning of January, thieves have been targeting Honda CRVs, primarily from the model years 2003-2009, in apartment building parking lots. So far, ten thefts have been reported, primarily in the city's west end.

Police say they believe the catalytic converters are being targeted because they are easy to remove and the metals they contain are expensive, so thieves can sell the stolen converters to scrap yards for cash.

Investigators say if you notice your catalytic converter is missing, you should contact police as soon as possible. You'll be able to tell if your converter is missing because you will hear a loud roaring or rumbling sound when you turn on your vehicle -- it'll get louder as you put your foot on the gas pedal as well.

Police say the converter connects the piping in the exhaust and it can cost you up to $2,000 to replace one.

Officers say they were able to detect a pattern with the thefts that were being reported by using some analytical software that was purchased using a grant from the provincial government.

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