FIGURES show catalytic converters thefts across the country have dropped - despite a 368 per cent increase of thefts across Dorset.

Catalytic converter thefts peaked in March 2021, with 3,245 recorded in the UK that month, but thefts have declined with 1,378 recorded in July, according to the National Police Chiefs' Council.

READ MORE: Catalytic converter thefts rise by more than 300 per cent over last year in Dorset

The figure show catalytic converter thefts across the UK have dropped by 57 per cent, as people opt to forensically mark their vehicles.

However, Dorset Police data revealed 94 reports of catalytic converters stolen from vehicles in the county between January and June 2020, which increased by 368 per cent – 440 reports – during the same period in 2021.

A surge in the price of precious metals saw theft of catalytic converters become a national issue earlier this year, and police across the UK joined forces to combat the trend.

In April, British Transport Police (BTP) coordinated a multi-agency operation to tackle catalytic converter theft. Over a thousand stolen catalytic converters were recovered and more than 50 people were arrested. During the week, over a thousand vehicles were also forensically marked by officers and partner agencies.

Dorset Police said these thefts can have a real impact on victims.

READ MORE: What you need to know as catalytic converter thefts increase in Dorset

It is not only an inconvenience, but also disrupts day-to-day tasks, such as taking children to school and getting to and from work.

Catalytic converter thefts can also leave victims with pricey repair bills, increased premiums or even having their vehicles written off.

National Police Chiefs' Council Lead for Metal Crime, BTP Assistant Chief Constable Charlie Doyle, said: "We recognise the disruptive and costly impact catalytic converter theft has on victims, so we’re very pleased that we are starting to see it decreasing.

"This positive reduction is testament to why it’s vital we join forces to share information and specialist knowledge to disrupt those operating in this area of crime."

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: "Please, be aware of the police advice to motorists about what you can do to reduce the chance of becoming a victim. And if you do see anything suspicious, make sure you report it immediately."

Catalytic converters are marked with a uniquely formulated and heat-resistant solution created by SmartWater, which is linked on the database to a specific vehicle.

SmartWater scientists can identify the vehicle it came from with just a fragment of the solution, increasing the chance of thieves being caught.