Drivers have been warned to be vigilant after a series of thefts of catalytic converters from Mercedes vans in the area.
During July so far, eight vans have had their entire exhaust units removed in order for the catalytic converters to be taken.
The thefts took place in Bridgemary, Rowner and Elson in Gosport plus Highlands and West End in Fareham. All eight were Mercedes vans.
Police said the thefts were being linked as a series.
Anyone with information about the thefts is asked to contact PC Barry Martin at Fareham Police Station by phoning 101.
Hampshire Constabulary’s advice to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of this type of theft is:
- Where possible, park your vehicle in a garage or secure compound, preferably well lit and monitored by CCTV. If this is not possible then try and park in a well lit area which is overlooked, or in a secure ParkMark parking facility.
- It has been reported that in some cases individuals have been removing the catalytic converters by accessing the engine compartment, so where possible always park in a way that makes access to the bonnet of the vehicle difficult.
- If you have multiple vehicles, use the vehicle with the lowest clearance underneath to block the vehicle with the higher clearance.