Spates of catalytic converter thefts have been sweeping Dublin in recent years with it becoming an easy way for thugs to make a quick and hefty buck.
And as reported incidents ramp up during the festive period when most take their eye off the ball in terms of security, car owners are being warned about the signs and methods of how the snatch-and-go, two minute theft takes place.
The catalytic converter in a car is an exhaust emission control device which reduces toxic gases and pollutants into less-toxic pollutants by catalyzing a redox reaction.
It contains several metals including small amounts of rhodium which is like platinum. This type of metal is very rare and valuable.
A warning text sent to residents in Stepaside confirmed that there are gangs operating in the area who have been captured on CCTV carrying out the thefts and fleeing in a dark red car.
The text said: "They are targeting hybrids and older Japanese cars (Honda, Toyota etc). The gardai are aware of this.
"If you see somebody lying under a car using a power tool in public or residential car parks, please try to get a photograph of the car and the people involved but obviously from a safe distance.
"They usually operate in groups of two to three and they they will use their car to partially block the view of passersby."
They added: "Please notify the gardai immediately of any suspicious activity."
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