Thefts of catalytic converters from vehicles have been on the rise in Regina. Most recently, Regina Police arrested two men attempting to steal one after they were caught in possession of tools capable of removing catalytic converters just after 12:30 in the morning last Friday.

An officer on patrol noticed a gate was opened to a parking lot located at a business. The two men were located under a vehicle. One man was taken into custody without incident while the other tried to flee and was apprehended by the canine unit. Both 37 year-old Riel Nault and 52 year-old Bradley Bellerose are both charged with attempted theft.

In late January, the Saskatoon Police Service also warned residents that there had been an increase in reports of the theft of catalytic converters. Over the last year, the SPS has seen a substantial increase in the theft of catalytic converters. In 2021 there were over 300 reported thefts, compared to a total of 14 in 2020. Catalytic converters are stolen for the precious metals found inside.

Typically, offenders are seen underneath a vehicle for a short period of time while they remove the catalytic converter, often using a reciprocal saw. If citizens see or hear suspicious activity, they are encouraged to report it to police immediately