Now criminals target metals found in engines rather than cars
Criminals are now targeting platinum found in cars’ catalytic converters rather than the vehicles themselves, according to a new survey.
There has been a 16 per cent increase of motor industry-related crime in the first half of 2014, according to the Netwatch Commercial Crime Report has found.
The news comes as the motor industry has recorded a 23 percent increase in the sale of new cars.
With Dublin, Waterford and Galway the counties worst-hit, the number of motor criminal incidents jumped from 171 this time last year to 198.
“The motor industry has always been a particular target for thieves, particularly car dealerships,” said David Walsh, Netwatch CEO.
The increase in crime goes “hand in hand with the recovery of the sector,” according to Byrne:
“With more vehicles being purchased, there is an increase in the level of activity, as well as the level of stock at dealerships, giving criminals a greater number of targets for the profitable metal market,” he said.
While motor crime has increased, criminal activity on the whole has registered a 1 percent decrease, following years of continuous increases, the report found.
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