Catalytic converter thefts spur gov’t to ramp up inspections at metal recycling centers

By THE STAR STAFF

Natural and Environmental Resources Secretary Waldemar Quiles Pérez and designated Consumer Affairs (DACO by its acronym in Spanish) Secretary Hiram Torres Montalvo announced on Tuesday that inspections of metal collection centers will intensify in the face of a rise in thefts of catalytic converters in Puerto Rico.

“We are announcing a complete review of all the data in the agency on metal collection centers since 2021 with the aim of evaluating each of these facilities,” Quiles Pérez said in a written statement.

The official said the administrative review will be complemented by an increase in joint operations with DACO and other agencies with jurisdiction over the establishments, as part of efforts to ensure compliance with current laws and regulations.

Torres Montalvo noted that DACO began a study of the Regulation of Weights and Measures Number 9219 to evaluate possible adjustments according to the current reality and announced that inspections in the collection centers will be stepped up.

“Everyone has to operate under the law and regulations,” he said.

According to data from the Puerto Rico Police, between Jan. 1 and Dec. 7 of this year, 416 complaints have been received for catalytic converter theft, a lower figure than the previous year, but which the authorities recognize as a problem that continues to harm consumers.