Car owners are being warned by police to be vigilant after an increase in catalytic converter thefts in Nottinghamshire.
The devices, which convert vehicle exhaust emissions into less toxic gas, are targeted because they contain high value metals.
In the last three months there has been a spate of incidents across Nottinghamshire, mostly in car parks, park and ride sites and open spaces.
There were 16 incidents in June, 24 in July and 23 in August. The increase in this type of offence is being seen nationally, according to Nottinghamshire Police.
Honda and Toyota vehicles are some of the most common types to be targeted by thieves.
Superintendent Ian Roberts, of Nottinghamshire Police, said the thieves usually arrive in a vehicle, jack the target vehicles up and use an angle grinder to remove the catalytic converters in a very short space of time.
He said: "Following this recent spate we are urging motorists to be vigilant to this type of crime. Our advice when leaving vehicles in such locations is to try to park in areas with higher footfall which offers natural security as opposed the more secluded areas of car parks and open spaces.
"People should also consider protective marking, and check with their vehicle's manufacturer to see if there are any protective guards they can purchase.
"Where we identify there are increased levels of offending we are linking in with the owners and operators of these car parks to look at crime prevention measures and signage to warn drivers.
"We are also liaising with other agencies such as Trading Standards to research possible disposal routes such as precious metals dealers and vehicle breakers.
"If anyone sees anything suspicious we would urge people to report it immediately on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
