POLICE have issued a warning to motorists after thieves targeted cars in Swindon.

Drivers are being asked to consider fitting catalytic converter guards to protect their vehicles from theft.

This comes after what Swindon Police describe as "a number of incidents across Swindon targeting older Japanese cars".

A spokesman added: "If you know anything about the incidents, please contact us on 101, or leave information anonymously with Crimestoppers."

A catalytic converter makes up part of the exhaust system and contains precious metals. It processes the emissions from a combustion engine into less harmful gases.

Earlier this year, officers gave advice on how to prevent catalytic converter thefts:

  • Park with the exhaust close to fences, walls, or a kerb to make the theft more difficult
  • Avoid parking the vehicle half on the pavement and half on the road
  • If parking in a public car park, consider parking alongside other cars and facing your bonnet towards the wall if possible
  • If there is a fleet of vehicles, park the low clearance vehicles to block the high clearance vehicles
  • If the catalytic converter is bolted on, ask for your garage to weld the bolts, or etch a serial number on the converter
  • Purchase a ‘cage clamp’ which locks in around the converter