Gardai have issued an urgent warning as catalytic converter thefts have been on the rise.
Car owners have been asked to take a number of precautions to ensure their catalytic converters aren't stolen.
A catalytic converter is an exhaust emission control device that is attached to the exhaust on the underbody of a vehicle.
A lot of these thefts can happen quickly - sometimes within minutes - and in broad daylight.
Motorists have been urged to:
- Park in public places, non-isolated areas with good street lighting
- Consider purchasing a catalytic converter lock or clamp, which will help prevent its theft and deter any potential criminals. Have the catalytic converter marked with VIN or vehicle registration number
Report any suspicious activity, if you see persons examining or working on a vehicle in a suspicious manner, please contact Gardaí on 999 or 112
A post on the Meath Crime Prevention Facebook group says: "[Catalytic converters] are being stolen for their high-value metal, they are expensive to replace and these thefts can cause substantial damage.
"These thefts occur very quickly with those involved being very proficient in what they do. A lot of these thefts occur in broad daylight and sometimes in public car parks."
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