OTTAWA – Ottawa thieves are targeting catalytic converters in a month-long crime spree.

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) would like to advise the public of a number of ongoing catalytic converters theft investigations throughout Ottawa.

“There are nine reported incidents since Feb. 28,” the OPS released in a statement. “The vehicle of choice appears to be older model Hondas. The theft is done by cutting (sawing) off the catalytic converters while the vehicle is unattended for a long period of time. The locations vary from places of work parking lots, OC Transpo Park & Ride stations, and also business and commercial parking lots.”

Investigators are asking the public to be on the lookout for anyone suspicious in parking lots with battery operated tools, or back packs, and looking at/or under vehicles.

Owners of older model Honda vehicles are encouraged to choose a strategic location to park their vehicles. Suggested parking areas would be near a busy pedestrian area or near any known surveillance cameras.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the East Criminal Investigation Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 3566. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or by downloading the Ottawa Police app.