Catalytic converters continue to be a hot commodity in Guelph, with more than 10 stolen from several local businesses over the weekend.
Staff from several businesses called police early Monday after arriving at work to find the exhaust components missing from work vehicles. Seven converters were stolen from three businesses in the area of York Road and Watson Parkway South, while three businesses on Regal Road reported a total of four converters stolen.
Police services across North America have reported a steep increase in catalytic convertor thefts in recent months, as values soar for the precious metals used in their construction, say Guelph police.
There have been approximately 40 such thefts in Guelph since Christmas.
Guelph police urge the public to report any suspicious persons or vehicles, particularly in remote areas where vehicles might be left unattended overnight. Where possible, vehicle owners are encouraged to park indoors or in well-lit, highly-visible areas.
The thefts are under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Sergeant Phil Perrins of the Guelph Police General Investigations and Special Projects Unit at 519-824-1212, ext. 7336, email him at [email protected], leave an anonymous message for Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or leave an anonymous tip online at www.csgw.tips.
