Police ignore petrol thieves

POLICE are refusing to hunt petrol thieves because of budget cuts.

At least eight forces have stopped pursuing drivers who flee garages without paying for their fuel.

The Petrol Retailers Association have warned the crime is costing the industry £30million a year.

Chairman Brian Madderson said: “It’s a serious problem. Police are ignoring this crime.

“They are technically encouraging criminals to steal petrol.”