Theft of catalytic converters installed under vehicles will rise in 2021 in Winnipeg, according to Manitoba Capital Police and Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI).

These catalytic converters are part of the exhaust system and have the function of reducing pollutant emissions. They contain rare metals, such as palladium, rhodium and platinum, that bind to heavy metals.

For this reason, they are particularly attractive to thieves.

The investigation led to a junkyard located between Day and Redonda streets. The trade bought catalytic converters that were sold to him illegally. The Police Department points out that both buyers and sellers of these stolen devices make money.

Ayon MPIthe average cost of replacing a catalytic converter is $ 1300.

During the search, police said they found 13 catalytic converters, $ 12,500, 9.4 grams of cocaine, 300 grams of cannabis, 2,400 milligrams of psilocybin, and transactional documents.

Of the three men arrested in connection with the investigation, two Anola men, ages 35 and 48, are facing seven charges, including:

• Criminal possession of property in excess of $ 5,000,

• Trafficking in property seized by crime in excess of $ 5,000,

• Possession of property proceeds obtained by crime in excess of $ 5,000.

They also face various drug -related cases. None of these cases have been proven in court. They were released while awaiting their appearance.

The third man, 43, was from Winnipeg. He was charged with possession of property seized by the crime under $ 5,000 and violating a bail order.