POLICE are urging drivers to be vigilant after catalytic converters were stolen from vans in a North-East city.
There were three reports of thefts from Mercedes Sprinter vans in Thanet Road, Taunton Square and Avonmouth Road, Sunderland, between last night (Monday, January 10) and this morning .
Now officers are asking motorists to keep an eye out for any suspicious behaviour around a vehicle and to report it to police.
Dave Pickett, Neighbourhood Inspector for the area, said: "We would also ask vehicle owners to obstruct access to the underneath of their vehicles, making it harder for thieves.
"We suggest parking where possible against a kerb, with the catalytic converter being closest to the kerb.
"As a further measure, have your catalytic converter etched or forensically marked and place stickers in the windscreen to say it has been done.
"Police would also like to hear from anyone who has been offered a cheap catalytic converter for sale to make contact."
Anyone with information about these thefts is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101, extension 69191 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.
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