Thieves sought after fuel worth £30,000 is stolen from tank

AN investigation has been launched after thieves made off with around £30,000 worth of fuel from a business in Launceston.

Devon and Cornwall Police officers are carrying out numerous enquiries and have asked anyone with information to come forward, especially those who have CCTV and who live around the industrial estate.

The theft, from the Pennygillam Industrial Estate, is believed to have taken place between 1am and 2.30am, on Tuesday April 5.

Anyone who has any information regarding the theft is encouraged to email 101@dc.police.uk or phone 101 quoting CR/028473/22.

PC Chris Collins said: “We are asking the public to be vigilant following a slight increase of fuel thefts over recent months, both commercial and domestic settings are being targeted.

“If you have a fuel tank, either domestic, agricultural or commercial, please review its security. Is it locked/alarmed? Is there security lighting/CCTV?”

He continued: “Offenders will often use curtain sided vehicles or commercial vans to carry large containers for these offences.

“If you see these types of vehicles acting suspiciously, especially under cover of darkness, please report it to the police including as much detail of those involved as possible.

“We are asking people to be vigilant and follow the prevention tips we have outlined.”

The news comes after it was revealed that more than £250,000 worth of diesel has reportedly been stolen from the Royal Navy’s HMNB Devonport base in Plymouth.

A big hike in fuel prices is believed to be behind the increase in thefts.