POLICE are warning Warrington businesses to be on their guard following a steep rise in thefts of petrol, diesel and oil.
The thefts are taking place from business premises and from the fuel tanks of lorries and plant across the town.
Officers are collating information about each incident and are urging business owners to reassess their current security.
Inspector Brian Heywood said: “Rising fuel prices mean that free fuel is an attractive prospect for thieves. We are receiving more and more reports of this type of crime. In many of the cases we find the liquid has been siphoned out but in some cases the culprits have actually cut the fuel pipes to drain tanks dry.
“Businesses have fallen foul of the thieves and we are finding lorries and heavy plant machinery in particular are being targeted in the Warrington area.”
Most of the thefts occur overnight and police have stepped up patrols in “at risk” areas.
Insp Heywood said: “We would urge any business that uses CCTV to ensure it is working properly and switched on at all times. If you have lorries left on your premises overnight, ensure they are parked in full view of the CCTV cameras. This will not only act as a deterrent to would-be thieves but will also provide vital evidence if someone is caught on camera attempting to steal fuel.”
Where possible vehicles should be locked away at night, and those kept outdoors should be in well-lit areas.
“Lockable petrol caps should also be used if possible and there are also a number of anti-siphoning devices available which will make life more difficult for thieves.”
