Police warn of fuel thefts

Devon and Cornwall Police are warning people to secure fuel tanks after a number of thefts across the area. 

Devon and Cornwall Police are urging people in the South Hams to check their fuel tanks after a number of thefts across the two counties.

A spokesperson for the police said: "Both commercial and domestic settings have been targetted. In particular, there have been several high value thefts from businesses on isolated industrial estates, including one incident involving up to £36,000 worth of fuel."

Police are asking two things:
1. If you have a fuel tank - either domestic, agricultural or commercial, please review its security. Is it locked/alarmed? Is there security lighting/CCTV? Make it difficult to access if possible!

2. To steal fuel you will need large containers. Offenders will often use curtain sided vehicles like those in the main image, or commercial vans to carry these containers for these offences. If you see these type of vehicles acting suspiciously - especially under cover of darkness or over the weekends, please report it to the police including as much detail of those involved as possible.

Devon and Cornwall Police are asking you to call 999 if offenders are present, or call 101 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if the situation is non-urgent. 

Main image: one of the curtain-sided vehicles used to move stolen fuel - credit Devon and Cornwall Police