PLEASE SHARE AND WARN YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS
Superintendent Jim Pearce of Devon and Cornwall Police said: “This type of crime can affect the most vulnerable people in our communities; elderly people and young families who need heat and warmth to stay well but may be struggling to keep up with rising fuel costs. We urge people in rural communities to be vigilant and to look out for any suspicious activity. Talk to your neighbours and help to keep an eye on each other’s fuel tanks.”
Many of the recent crimes were not discovered for several weeks. Police say regular checking of tanks and earlier discovery would increase the likelihood of detecting the crime and catching the culprits but there are many simple steps homeowners can take to try and prevent the crime occurring in the first place.
Devon and Cornwall Police are working in partnership with local fuel companies to raise awareness of the increase in oil thefts and to offer advice on how people can reduce the chances of becoming a victim of this type of crime.