|
I wanted to provide an update regarding theft from motor vehicles, which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey. We want to reassure you that the overall risk of catalytic converter theft in the Kenton area remains low. This type of crime is not common here, and we continue to work closely with local partners to keep our neighbourhood safe.
However, we would like to make you aware that one incident of catalytic converter theft was reported recently. While isolated, it serves as a reminder for all of us to stay vigilant.
đźš— How to Protect Your Catalytic Converter from Theft:
1. Install an Anti-Theft Shield or Cage
These metal plates or cages bolt over your catalytic converter, making it much harder and more time‑consuming to remove.
Often called cat shields, cat plates, or catalytic converter locks
Widely available for popular theft‑targeted cars (e.g., Toyota Prius, Honda Jazz/Fit, SUVs)
2. Park Smart
Where you leave your car can make a huge difference:
Park in a locked garage when possible
If parking on the street, choose well‑lit, busy areas
Park close to walls or other vehicles to block access underneath
For SUVs or vans, consider lowering the suspension (if adjustable) when parked
3. Install a Car Alarm
Upgrade to or enable:
Motion‑sensing alarms
Tilt sensors (detect when the car is raised)
Vibration sensors
These make the theft noisy and risky for thieves.
4. Etch the Converter & Add High‑Temp Paint
Police and insurers often recommend:
Etching your licence plate or VIN onto the catalytic converter
Spraying it with bright, high‑temperature paint
This doesn’t stop theft completely, but it makes the part harder for thieves to resell and easier for police to trace.
5. Check for Manufacturer Updates
Some car brands now sell:
Theft‑resistant catalytic converters
Official shields
Software updates for alarms
Replacement converters with less‑valuable metals
It’s worth asking your dealership.
6. Use Driveway or Home Security Measures
At home, consider:
CCTV cameras trained on your vehicle
Motion‑activated lights
Security gates or bollards (if feasible)
Thieves prefer quick, hidden opportunities—anything that increases visibility helps.
7. Keep Insurance Updated
Some insurers:
Offer discounts for theft‑prevention devices
Cover catalytic converter theft specifically
Can advise on approved anti‑theft products
🔧 Most Effective Combo
For best protection, combine:
Shield + Good Parking + Tilt Alarm = Strongest deterrence
If you notice any suspicious activity—particularly individuals working underneath vehicles late at night or using car jacks in unusual circumstances—please report it to the police immediately.
Thank you for helping keep our community safe.
 Having personal items stolen from your vehicle is an upsetting experience, and we are determined to find and arrest those who break the law. We will keep you updated with what we are doing to tackle this in your area, but in the meantime, please follow the below advice to help protect your belongings. Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked. Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door. If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when it’s not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months. Remove all items from view by taking them with you or putting them in the boot out of sight. Thieves will look for any items on display. Things like clothes, documents or an old bag might not seem like valuables, but they could still tempt a thief. Ensure you remove all other clues there might be valuables linked to the car, such as phone chargers or sat-nav mounts. Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you do not have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space. Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme. Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others.
If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years. | 
