The catalytic converter on the 1.6L is difficult to access. The vehicles are so uncommon I doubt thieves know how to steal them (if it's possible). They probably don't even know the TC can have different engines.
Next time I'm under the van I'll take a good look.
That is absolutely correct. I am not sure what is in the converter but Ford buried it far enough in the TC to make the converter thief steal the whole vehicle so they would have enough time to get the converter.
You folks with the !.6 turbo need to be a little more nervous!