Police warning after double theft from vans

The parts, which are valuable for thieves because of the precious metals they contain, were taken from vans parked in Potter Hill, Greasbrough, and Eilam Road, Kimberworth, overnight on Saturday. The converters, which contain metals including platinum, reduce the harmful emissions coming out of vehicles.

Temporary Detective Sergeant Jamie Henderson said: “Driving without a catalytic converter creates an excessively loud revving noise, like a racing car.

“It can also be extremely dangerous, as fumes could start to come into the vehicle.”

He said motorists are advised to park in well-lit and busy areas wherever possible and consider marking the metal shell of the catalytic converter so it can be traced if it is stolen.