A criminal network of rogue mechanics, crooked car dealers, and foreign buyers is stealing catalytic converters from vehicles across Harare and other areas, leaving a trail of motorists counting losses.
The syndicate is targeting catalytic converters because of the precious metals they contain, such as rhodium, palladium, and cerium, which fetch high prices on the international market.
Mechanics operating along Kaguvi Street and at Gazaland in Highfield have allegedly been deceiving unsuspecting clients into believing that removing the catalytic converter improves engine performance. Others have been removing the devices during routine servicing.
Insurance salvage yards, which house written-off vehicles, have also become hunting grounds for the criminal enterprise. Motorists are being forced to pay between US$150 and US$500 to replace the stolen components.
Amon Shandira, a motor mechanic operating in downtown Harare, said the devices could be removed within minutes.
“Removing catalytic converters from vehicles is as easy as ABC,” he said. “Rogue mechanics can even damage a car’s fuel line or wiring, necessitating costlier repairs.”
He added that the first sign for motorists was often the “suddenly deafening roar of a muffler-less car.”
A bush mechanic in Gazaland confirmed the brisk trade.
“Most people who come here looking for these devices are foreigners, and recently they have been mopping up all these devices at a premium price,” he said.
Most of the metals are reportedly finding markets in Zambia, South Africa, and Europe.
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Victims of the crime have been left to bear the costs.
Chakanetsa Mandebvu said his Subaru Legacy began showing unusual symptoms after a service along Kaguvi Street.
“It was only after consulting a trusted mechanic that I discovered the catalytic converter had been removed during a previous service,” he said.
Mandebvu added that his attempts to hold the suspected bush mechanic accountable were futile, forcing him to fork out US$300 for a replacement.
Antony Makwarimba of Gazaland said he sees an average of five cars per week with their catalytic converter powder extracted.
“Some vehicles have a flexible exhaust pipe near the converter box, making it easy for thieves to puncture and extract the precious contents,” he said.
“You will only notice the change in car exhaust sound and fuel consumption, which becomes far worse than normal.”
Police said they are ready to act once cases are officially reported.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said:
“We will definitely look into the matter and check with all our stations to see if there are any cases being reported.
"But now that you have given us this information, we will need to step up efforts to dismantle this network and bring the rogue mechanics and their wealthy foreign collaborators to justice before this precious metal heist spirals further out of control.”
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