by Chris Hunter

chunter@thekmgroup.co.uk

Drivers have been warned to be vigilant after a series of daylight raids in which catalytic converters were stolen from supermarket car parks.

Thieves targeted parked cars at four different supermarkets in the space of two weeks - striking at Sainsbury's in Quarry Wood, Aylesford, on Thursday May 5 and Monday May 9.

On those occasions a Peugeot 406, and then a Peugeot 806 were targeted between Noon and 12.30pm.

Police say drivers of large vehicles such as 4x4's and people carriers are most at risk, as thieves can get under the vehicle more easily to remove the catalytic converters, which are usually then sold for their scrap metal value.

DS Ben Turner said he wanted drivers to be aware and think carefully where they park their vehicles.

He added: "If they see someone acting suspiciously near any vehicle at such a location I would ask them to call police immediately.

"It doesn’t take long for a thief to remove a catalytic converter – it may be just a matter of minutes – so prompt information is key to catching the people responsible."

Anyone with information about the thefts should contact police on 01732 379217 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.