Police have issued a warning to motorists, after a spate of catalytic converter thefts in the county.  

On May 11, drivers in Wallingford, Cholsey and Moulsford reported thefts and suspicious activity to the police, with one owner left fearing his collectible vintage car could be written off after its catalytic converter was taken.

Ten days later, a woman are left afraid to use Oxford’s Redbridge Park and Ride after she discovered the cables of her car had been cut and the catalytic converter stolen.

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A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: “We would always urge the public to report thefts to the police by calling 101 or making a report online.

“Hybrid vehicles, particularly Honda, Toyota and Lexus models are most commonly targeted.

“Catalytic converters can be stolen in a matter of minutes, with offenders using a jack to raise the vehicle and then sawing off the converter.

“With the help of the eyes and ears in our communities, we can disrupt those committing these offences so please report any suspicious activity to police.

“If you believe you are witnessing a crime in action, call 999.

“You can protect your vehicle by parking in a protected garage, where possible, or parking in a way that restricts access to the underneath of your vehicle.

“For example, against a wall or hedge line.

“We also recommend etching or using a security marking product on your catalytic converter so that if it is stolen, we have a better chance of tracing it back to you once it’s recovered and can help bring us those committing these offences to justice.”

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This story was written by Sophie Perry. She joined the team in 2021 as a digital reporter.

You can get in touch with her by emailing: sophie.perry@newsquest.co.uk

Follow her on Twitter @itssophieperry

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