A? man has allegedly stolen more than 70 catalytic converters from cars across Melbourne, which have an estimated value of $270,000.
The man from South Australia has been charged by Victoria Police with more than 200 offences, including for allegedly ramming an unmarked police car in a separate incident.
Police said they arrested the 40-year-old ?in an allegedly stolen MG at a car park in Springvale on Tuesday.
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"The investigation began in April following reports one of the car parts was stolen from a parked vehicle in Noble Park," Victoria Police said in a statement.
"Police linked the incident to a number of thefts across 10 suburbs including Dandenong, Springvale, Burwood, Highett, Chadstone and Brunswick.
"The thefts occurred between April and June this year."
Catalytic converters are extremely valuable due to the metal they are made from.
They are used in cars to ?convert exhaust emissions and significantly reduce toxic gases from being emitted.
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He is also facing separate charges after a van allegedly rammed an unmarked police car at ?Dandenong North" on June 16.
"A police officer discharged his firearm at the van," police said.
No one was injured in that incident.
?The South Australian man was charged with 212 offences including theft of a motor vehicle, theft from a motor vehicle, theft and drug offences.
In relation to the van incident, he was charged with ?recklessly exposing a police officer to risk by driving and conduct endangering serious injury over the incident.
Police expect more charges to be laid.
He is behind bars and is expected to face court again in September.?
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