Catalytic converter theft is destroying the lives of Chigwell Row Residents - Be wary if you drive an oldish Honda!

 

An image taken from October video of catalytic converter thieves.

By Hannah Chowdhry

Residents of Chigwell Row have been terrorised by an increasing frequency of catalytic converter thefts, which are now happening almost daily in Chigwell.  

During a frank and open discussion during a Chigwell Row Residents Association meeting (via Zoom on-line), close to 20 local residents shared their concerns for their safety and their property.

One local resident had a frightening experience only days ago when men could be heard on their street using loud grinding equipment to rip out the catalytic converter from the home of a neighbour.  This resident shared this video on whatsapp (click here ) or watch in embed below:

During the meeting residents shared what they new about this particular crime in Chigwell Row. David Smith a CRRA board member explained that he had learned about 3 catalytic converter thefts last week, on Coopers Road. He explained that the vehicles involved had all been Honda's and generally those that are older. It seems that modern Hondas and other vehicles have less of the precious metals platinum, Palladium and Rhodium. The amount of precious metal content in older vehicles these thefts attractive, despite the obvious risks of a loud operation.

One local resident asked whether reverse parking reduces these thefts by making it more difficult to steal the converters, she had reported her own catalytic converter theft only a few weeks earlier (click here), the shocking and brazen nature of the crime led to a previous zoom meeting. Some of the more knowledgeable,  local residents were able to explain that these converters are more likely to be near the front or the middle of the car.  This means that reverse parking in many cases would increase the risk of a catalytic converter theft.

Several options were discussed for cat-clamps or cat-locks which provide a safety surround to catalytic converters.  However, it was explained to all residents that such measure does not make it impossible for a thief to steal this vital and valuable vehicle part.  However. it would increase the difficulty and time required for a successful theft and would make targeting of vehicles with such equipment much less desirable. 

Details on the Cat-clamp product can be found (here)

An alternative is Cat-lock (here)

A local resident has informed us that Gravel Lane Autos are a local company that fit safety locks for catalytic converters.  CRRA will call them on Friday to see if we can organise a group discount for our members, which includes at least 209 members on our our whatsapp group and many others reached via our newsletter. We will inform you soon on progress.

Last night it was voted that CRRA proceed with a plane to bring a return of the Chigwell Row Security Patrols.  Moreover, support was also widespread across our community Whatsapp group.