Drivers have been warned after a spate of catalytic converters being stolen from cars.

Detectives are investigating after six thefts were reported in Swanley and New Ash Green since the start of November.

The thefts have been linked by officers and investigations so far has led to two people being arrested.

Safety advice has now been issued by police in a bid to protect motorists' vehicles being targeted.

Chief Insp Mark Stubberfield, from the Sevenoaks Community Safety Unit at Kent Police, said: "While our officers regularly patrol these area and are alert for suspicious activity, we are taking the opportunity to warn residents to ensure cars are kept as safe as possible whilst we investigate.

"We would advise to owners to contact the car's manufacturer, as some sell clamps and security cages that make catalytic converters more difficult to steal.

"You can also security-mark and register the metal shell of the converter so we can return it to you if it is stolen and recovered.

'We are taking the opportunity to warn residents to ensure cars are kept as safe as possible whilst we investigate...'

"As part of our enquiries we also work closely with scrap metal dealers to make it easier to trace sellers of stolen metal and also identify any dealers who operate illegally."

The devices, which are part of a car's exhaust system, clean harmful gases before being removed through the exhaust pipe.

They are attractive to thieves because of the expensive metals - palladium and rhodium - which are contained inside.

Police have warned people to park in a garage whenever possible or if not then parking in a busy, well-lit area. If possible, police say it is worth considering installing good quality CCTV cameras.

Anyone with information should call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/200183/20 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form on their website.

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