Thefts of catalytic converters are on the rise across the Pittsburgh region, and police are urging residents to stay aware of suspicious activity.

Catalytic converters bring in big money on the underground market because they are made of the metals platinum, palladium and rhodium.

Often, thieves can easily cut the equipment from beneath vehicles or trucks without being noticed, Pittsburgh Public Safety Spokesman Cara Cruz said. The thefts most often happen between midnight and 5 a.m., she said.

There were 79 catalytic converters reported stolen in Pittsburgh last year, she said. So far this year, about 65 already have been reported stolen. Cruz said many of the catalytic converters have been taken from box trucks and Toyota Prius vehicles.

“The public should be aware of any vans or trucks they don’t normally see in their neighborhoods, as thieves often work in tandem,” Cruz said.

Neighbors are encouraged to share information and, if possible, direct security cameras toward parked vehicles.

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