POLICE are appealing for witnesses after parts were stolen from a number of cars.

Catalytic converter, which control exhaust emissions, were stolen from three vehicles in Crowborough.

The incidents took place in the early hours of August 5, when residents reported hearing loud noises.

The first theft took place at Nassau Drive at 1.25am, where a group of up to four men dressed in black were seen targeting a Honda vehicle.

Two of the men were then seen running away from the vehicle, and witnesses believe they saw a silver vehicle, possibly a Subaru Forester, nearby.

Then at 2.15am, another Honda vehicle parked on a driveway in Tanners Way was targeted.

The victim reported seeing a silver or grey vehicle nearby.

Police officers are appealing for information and witnesses about the thefts, particularly anyone with dashcam or doorbell camera footage.

Signs that thieves may be targeting a vehicle to steal a catalytic converter include the vehicle being raised using a car jack in a car park or residential area, and a loud drilling or cutting sound coming from underneath the vehicle.

Witnesses or anyone with information can report online https://www.sussex.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us/us/contact-us/provide-more-information-to-be-added-to-a-crime-report/ or call 101 and quote Operation Rhodium.

Advice on how to prevent catalytic converter thefts or recognise the signs it may be happening is available on the Sussex Police website here https://www.sussex.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/catalytic-converter-theft/

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