Catalytic Converter Thieves Target Hastings Hybrids
Police in Hastings have slammed the brakes on a spike in catalytic converter thefts. The main targets? Honda and Toyota hybrid cars.
Lightning-Fast Thieves Caught on CCTV
Shocking CCTV footage from 2021 reveals just how quick and ruthless these crooks are, stripping catalytic converters in seconds.
What You Need to Know About Catalytic Converter Thefts
- What is a catalytic converter? It’s a device fitted to your car’s exhaust to reduce harmful gases. But it also contains valuable metals that thieves can swipe in under a minute.
- Spot the signs:
- Vehicle suddenly raised on a jack in a car park or residential street
- Loud drilling or cutting noises from under the car
How to Protect Your Vehicle
- Park in a garage overnight or secure compound, especially for commercial vehicles.
- Choose well-lit spots overlooked by homes or CCTV. Park close to fences or obstacles that block jacking.
- Avoid parking on kerbs, which makes jacking easier.
- Get your converter welded on at a local garage.
- Fit ‘cage clamps’ around the catalytic converter and bolts to frustrate thieves.
- Use tilt sensors that trigger alarms if your car is tampered with.
- Register and mark your converter with a forensic ID to make selling stolen parts harder.
The Hastings Neighbourhood Policing team is actively advising locals with at-risk vehicles. They offer free Catalytic Converter Security Marking Kits with database registration at Hastings and Battle police stations – just pop in to grab one.
See It? Stop It! How to Report a Theft
- If you witness a theft happening, dial 999 immediately.
- If safe, snap photos of suspects or their vehicle number plates but don’t confront anyone.
- If the theft has already happened, report it online or call 101.
Hastings police urge everyone to stay vigilant and work together to stop these speedy stealers in their tracks.
