Warning as thieves target vans
Reporter: Robbie Gill
Date published: 11 November 2014
MERCEDES truck and van catalytic converters are being targeted by thieves: five have been reported in Royton and Shaw over the last six weeks.
One converter was stolen from a Mercedes van in High Crompton at the end of October. On the next day one was stolen in Shaw. The thieves dismantled the exhaust system to retrieve the converter, which contains platinum - though in some cases it is thought the parts were stolen to repair other vehicles. Converters on these vehicles can cost up to £2,000.
Inspector Jim Trosi said: “We want people to be aware and vigilant and report any suspicious activity.”
Mercedes offers a special security device which prevents the exhaust system on a Sprinter van’s easy removal
A Mercedes spokesman said: “We are seeing this more and more on 4x4 vehicles because of the ease of access under the vehicle.”
Most Viewed News Stories
- 1Three arrested in connection with 'brazen' gunshots incident in Clarksfield
- 2Police section 60 and 60AA powers put in place following several incidents of disorder in Royton
- 3Phoenix on fire as Roughyeds crush Newcastle
- 4Oldham education provider’s top team shortlisted for national award
- 5Steve's next big fund-raising adventure is just weeks away