The rising price of platinum has resulted in a new 'industry' with thieves stealing catalytic converters from cars in large numbers across the UK.

These 'cats' are being exported to Eastern Europe and China, so that the platinum they contain can then be extracted. Platinum prices are continuing to rise, fueling demand for illegal sources.

Catalytic converters are estimated to hold between 1g and 3g of platinum, and the precious metal is part of the 'scrubbing process', which cleans up fuel emissions from vehicles. Replacing the stolen catalytic converters can cost thousands.

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