Hampshire police have warned Southampton residents of a high number of catalytic converter thefts in recent months.

The police have said that catalytic converter theft is closely linked to the prices of Rhodium and Palladium, which are contained within the converters.

The prices of these metals have increased over recent years which has contributed to the number of thefts increasing.

Southampton North Inspector, Brian Goodall, said: “We understand the frustration felt by local residents whose vehicles have been specifically targeted by would-be opportunists; these incidents can have a profound impact on victims’ livelihoods – especially those who rely on their vehicles on a day-to-day basis.

“The cost of repairs or loss of earnings through a car being off the road can be significant – but we want to work with victims of crime to ensure that they do not face a similar fate in the future.

“We will be engaging with local communities in the coming months via our beat surgeries, and also with those who have been a victim of crime in relation to catalytic converter theft, to distribute a number of Smart Water kits.

"These will allow for members of the public to put preventative measures in place to ensure that their vehicle is better protected against such thefts, and in the event that the catalytic converter is recovered, then it can be returned to its rightful owner.

Hampshire police have issued the following advice on how to best protect your vehicle:

• Find out where your cat converter is located on your car; if it’s at the front of your car, park with the bonnet towards a wall if possible. If it’s at the back, park it with your exhaust to the wall

• Avoid parking your vehicle half on the pavement and half on the road, as this may make it easier for get under your car

• If your catalytic converter is bolted on, you can ask for your local garage to weld the bolts to make it more difficult to remove

• Alternatively, you can also etch a serial number on the converter so that if it is stolen and then recovered, we can get your car converter back to you

• Speak to your dealership or garage about the possibility of adding a tilt sensor that will activate the alarm should any thief try to jack the vehicle up to steal the converter

Inspector Goodall added: “If you see someone acting suspiciously under a vehicle, report it. Obtain as much information as possible, including any vehicle registrations.

“If you’re a scrap metal dealer and someone has tried to sell you a Catalytic Converter, please let us know.

“Our local officers are monitoring reports and continue to encourage people to report any suspicious activity.”