UK Fuel Theft Rises after US-Iran Conflict

Fuel theft at UK petrol stations has risen sharply as higher prices following the US-Iran conflict increase pressure on motorists. According to data from about 500 stations, the daily value of stolen fuel has increased by more than a quarter since February, The Times reported.

Estimates suggest more than €1.3m (about $1.4m) worth of fuel is stolen each week. Station operators say perpetrators include both organized groups and individuals driving expensive vehicles.

Operators reported cases of luxury car drivers leaving without paying and, in some instances, reacting mockingly when confronted. Organized groups are said to fill large jerry cans and resell the fuel at lower prices.

Statistics show increases in both the volume of fuel stolen and the number of incidents. These include drivers leaving without paying and cases in which customers promise to return but fail to do so. Petrol stations are increasingly using vehicle recognition technology to reduce losses.

In March, drivers stole more than 6,500 liters of fuel a day from 500 outlets, up 15.7% from February. The daily value of thefts rose from €9,610 to €12,218, an increase of 27.4%.

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