Police warn on diesel thefts

POLICE are warning business across Warrington to be on their guard following a spate of thefts of diesel.
Over the past few weeks haulage and transport companies – mainly in the Warrington Central area – have been targeted by thieves who have attempted to siphon fuel from a number of vehicles.
The majority of these incidents have taken place overnight and at weekends when many haulage yards and depots are empty.
Police have stepped up patrols in areas considered to be most at risk and are following a number of lines of enquiry. But this week, officers warned local businesses to be on their guard and to take time to reassess their current security.
PC Garry Geoghegan, of Warrington Central Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: “We are receiving more and more reports of this type of crime as more and more businesses are falling foul of thieves.
“The area around Winwick Quay has been a particular target recently with large amounts of diesel – up to 500/600 litres a time – being stolen. In many of the cases we find that the liquid has been siphoned out of vehicles. We want to raise awareness of the issue and are urging business owners to assess their current security measures in a bid to reduce the risk of being targeted.
“We would urge any business that uses CCTV to ensure it is working properly and switched on at all times. If you have lorries left on your premises overnight then ensure they are parked in full view of the CCTV cameras.
“This will not only act as a deterrent to would-be thieves but will also provide vital evidence if someone is caught on camera attempting to steal fuel.
“Ideally all vehicles should be locked away at night. But, if that is not possible, then any vehicles – whether that be cars, vans or lorries – or any heavy plant machinery that is kept outdoors should be parked in well-lit areas.”
Police are also appealing for any information on anyone who is offering cheap diesel for sale.
PC Geoghegan said: “If you are approached by someone selling diesel then you should refuse to buy it. You do not know where it has come from and the containers are likely to be contaminated, which affects the fuel and can damage your vehicle’s engine. You also run the risk of being prosecuted yourself for the offence of handling stolen goods.”