Catalytic converter thieves caught on camera in Bridgeport

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago police are investigating after brazen thieves stole a catalytic converter off a car in the Bridgeport neighborhood on Sunday.

Surveillance video showed the crime taking place in seconds. Police say thieves target converters because they contain precious metals.

You can protect yourself from becoming a victim by parking in well-lit areas and equipping your car with a sensitive alarm system so the slightest movement triggers it.

Some automotive shops can even engrave your license plate number on the converter so it can be traced.