Petrol thefts have significantly increased as fuel prices rise, largely attributed to the ongoing conflict in Iran. According to data from the fuel theft recovery company Pay My Fuel, petrol thefts have surged by 62% compared to the previous year. One petrol retailer reported experiencing about five drive-offs each week at each of his five forecourts, resulting in losses of approximately £2,000 weekly.
Impact of Rising Fuel Prices
The rise in fuel prices has been notable since the onset of the US-Israel war with Iran. The cost of filling a typical family car with petrol has increased by £14, while a tank of diesel has gone up by about £27. This escalation in prices has not only affected consumers but has also led to an increase in thefts and abuse directed at petrol station staff.
Josh, a petrol retailer in southern England, shared that the number of drive-offs has increased from one or two per week to about five. He provided CCTV footage showing various incidents of theft, including a motorbike stealing £14.97 worth of fuel and a white van driving off after filling up with £151.53 worth of petrol. Josh noted that while some individuals may be stealing out of desperation, the majority of cases appear to be organized theft.
Responses from Authorities and Retailers
Gordon Balmer, executive director of the Petrol Retailers Association (PRA), indicated that the increase in fuel prices has led to a noticeable rise in theft. He acknowledged that while some thefts may be opportunistic, others are clearly planned. Rachael King, a forecourt manager in Gloucestershire, expressed concern that continued theft could lead to higher fuel prices, as retailers may need to adjust their prices to offset losses from theft.
Superintendent Lisa Maslen, head of the National Business Crime Centre, stated that fuel theft places a significant strain on retailers and increases demand on policing resources. Police forces are reportedly taking a proactive approach to tackle the issue, aiming to identify offenders and disrupt repeat behavior. A government spokesperson emphasized that fuel theft undermines businesses and urged the public to report any witnessed crimes.
Despite a slight decrease in fuel prices over the weekend, the RAC reported that petrol prices remain 19.2% higher than at the start of the conflict, with diesel prices 34.5% above pre-war levels. Balmer noted that these increases have been particularly challenging for independent retailers who must reflect the higher costs immediately, leading to instances of staff abuse fueled by public frustration over rising prices.
More than half of the pump price of fuel is attributed to taxes, and Balmer highlighted that retailers operate on very slim margins. The government has condemned any form of abuse against workers in the fuel industry, reiterating that such behavior is unacceptable.
Source: Original report