Fuel thefts rise across region as petrol and diesel prices spike
The number of people driving off without paying for fuel has spiked in recent weeks as prices rose by record levels.
There have been more than 160 reports of bilking at garages across Staffordshire since the start of March, with notable spates of theft in South Staffordshire, Newcastle-under-Lyme ans Stoke-on-Trent.
It came as drivers were hit by the largest monthly spike in pump prices on record in the same month, despite a cut in fuel duty.
Police said the people responsible were often tampering with numberplates and covering their faces before filling up and fleeing.
There were 40 incidents reported between March 21 and 27, where suspects filled their fuel tanks and drove off without paying.
A total of 34 incidents were reported last week, with another 15 this week.
Of the 15 incidents, around £1,000 worth of fuel was reported stolen.
Chief Inspector David Wain, of Staffordshire Police, said: “Local policing teams continue to liaise with local businesses in order to strategise effective means of deterring these offenders.
“More often than not, suspects will seek to conceal their identity by covering their faces with masks and hoods and using the furthest possible pump from view.
“Vehicle registration plates may also be tampered with or cloned in an attempt to stop the offender from being identified.
“Thieves may also use the nearest pump to the exit in order to leave the scene as quickly as possible.
“Offenders may target businesses during busy hours – when it is increasingly likely they can slip under the radar and make good their escape.”
The average cost of a litre of petrol at UK forecourts rose by 11.6p to end the month at 163.3p, according to RAC analysis.
Diesel prices rose even more sharply, up 22.1p per litre to 177.3p.
The increase came despite Chancellor Rishi Sunak implementing a 5p per litre cut in fuel duty on March 23. That was worth a saving of 6p per litre owing to the impact on VAT.
Chief Inspector Wain added that officers are encouraging the public and business owners to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police immediately.
“We are increasing proactive patrols across various hotspot areas and continue to liaise with businesses in order to identify and apprehend these offenders,” he said.
Inspector Rebecca Collier, of the force’s early intervention and prevention unit, said: “EIPU continue to review and research these crimes on a force-wide scale - identifying any patterns and themes, including the most targeted petrol stations.
“We continue to work closely with our local uniformed colleagues to identify any problem solving issues, including visits to petrol stations with advice and guidance to prevent this trend."
