Warning After Rise in Diesel Theft

Nottinghamshire Police are asking vehicle owners across Mansfield to be vigilant after an increase in diesel theft.

There has been a recent spate of vehicles, particularly vans, being targeted, with thieves forcing open fuel caps before siphoning off quantities of fuel.

The Police have put additional patrols in place but there are a number of steps drivers can take to help prevent them from becoming a victim.

These include:

  • Consider parking your vehicle with the fuel-filler close to a wall.
  • Purchase a locking fuel cap.
  • Review your parking security measures - are you parked near CCTV? Is the area well lit? Can you leave your vehicle somewhere more secure?
  • Wherever possible, leave work vehicles in a secure compound.
  • If you have a vehicle alarm, use it.

Inspector Mark Webster, who oversees community policing for areas within Mansfield North, said: "With the credit crunch, we have seen fuel prices increase significantly. Unfortunately we find thieves will also look to take advantage by using other peoples' fuel for their own measures, often to commit other crime, or they will sell it on.

"We need residents to be vigilant and take care when parking their vehicles. We want people to be forewarned that this is happening and to report anyone acting suspiciously to the Police immediately."