Fuel Theft

Agreed on 18 March 2026. Updated on 7 May 2026

Fuel Theft – Wells Neighbourhood Policing Team

With the rising cost of fuel such as heating oil, diesel, and petrol, the likelihood of fuel theft has increased across rural areas.

We are encouraging anyone who stores fuel on their property—whether domestic or commercial—to review their security arrangements. Simple steps like improved lighting, CCTV, secure tank locks, or regular checks can make a big difference.

If you see anything suspicious, please report it to the police via 101 or online.
If you believe a crime is in progress, always call 999 immediately.

Your vigilance helps us keep our communities safe.
Thank you for your continued support.

— Wells Neighbourhood Policing Team

Actions

7 May 2026

Wells Neighbourhood Policing Team continue to carry out proactive patrols across rural areas as part of ongoing efforts to deter fuel theft. Officers are focusing on key locations and working to provide reassurance to the community while preventing further incidents.
Crime Prevention Advice:
Residents and businesses can help reduce the risk of fuel theft by taking the following steps:
- Secure tanks with robust locks and consider installing anti-siphon devices
- Position tanks in well-lit, visible locations where possible
- Install CCTV or motion-activated lighting to deter offenders
- Regularly check fuel levels and report any suspicious activity promptly
- Consider marking fuel or using tracking measures to help identify stolen property
Anyone who notices suspicious behaviour is encouraged to report it to police via 101, or 999 in an emergency.
22 March 2026

If you’re in agriculture or rely on oil heating in rural areas, now’s a good time to review your security and deter opportunistic theft.

At home (heating oil): Use a tank lock and keep the fill point capped; fit security lighting and consider a camera; keep hedges/fencing maintained so tanks aren’t hidden from view; mark tanks with your postcode/property name; report suspicious activity straight away.

On farms & at businesses (red diesel / fuel stores): Store vehicles and bowsers in secure, well‑lit areas; lock compounds and gates, and restrict access; dip/monitor tanks regularly and record volumes; keep keys secure and change codes when staff/contractors leave; fit alarms, anti-siphon devices and CCTV where practical; avoid advertising fuel deliveries and vary routines.

Please share with neighbours and colleagues — a few simple steps can make your site a much harder target.