Nine catalytic converters stolen in just 40 minutes with Toyotas 'target vehicle of choice'

Police have issued an urgent warning to motorists after thieves stole catalytic converts from nine different vehicles in the space of just 40 minutes. It equates to one nearly every five minutes.

And police in Sale, Trafford, said Toyotas were 'the target vehicle of choice' as they issued a public appeal for anyone with information to come forward. The roads around the Sale area where thieves struck have also been listed.

Offenders typically use a jack to lift a vehicle and remove its catalytic converter within a matter of minutes, police said. The devices work to reduce the emission of pollutants and contain precious metals like platinum, palladium and rhodium.

Police are now asking the public to be extra vigilant and report any suspicious activity they see.

Vehicles were targeted in Grange Road; Kilvert Drive; Darley Street; Roebuck Lane; St Marys Road; Hollins Grove and Whitfield Road between 5am and 5.40am on Friday.

GMP Trafford South posted details on Facebook.

They said: "CRIME UPDATE: in the early hours of the 19th August 2022 between 05:00hrs and 05:40hrs there have been nine incidents of catalytic converter thefts. In almost all instances the target vehicle of choice has been a Toyota.

"The affected roads include Grange Road; Kilvert Drive; Darley Street; Roebuck Lane; St Marys Road; Hollins Grove and Whitfield Road. Please be vigilant and don’t hesitate to report any suspicious activity especially between those times.

"We are currently conducting enquires based on information provided to us from witnesses."

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