City RCMP revealed an increase in thefts in 2021 during the Crime Statistics review during Monday’s City Council meeting. 

Swift Current City RCMP’s Staff Sgt. Evan Gordon revealed that an increase in theft, theft over 5000, and theft of vehicles had all gone up over the course of the previous year.  

“I think some of those can be pointed to catalytic converter theft,” Gordon speculated. “We definitely saw an increase in those.” 

Over the course of 2021, City RCMP responded to only two calls concerning the theft of catalytic converters. However, in the two calls, five different units were stolen off vehicles.  

“Each one of these catalytic converter units is thousands of dollars to replace,” explained Gordon. “So it can be quite pricey to replace.” 

Sgt. Gordon went on to explain how the province as a whole saw an 800% increase in catalytic converter theft. He thinks that an increase in media coverage has helped to make people aware that these are vulnerable, easy to strike at parts.  

“There was an increase in the cost of precious metals,” noted Gordon. “So the metal that's in these catalytic converters is pretty sought after.” 

The precious metals Sgt. Gordon spoke about include platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Each is extremely valuable and the main driving factor behind the thefts. 

If people are concerned about their vehicle and possible theft, it’s important to remember to take steps to protect their property. Parking in well-lit areas, security cameras, and even welding the part on can all help prevent theft.