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Mon, 20 Apr 2026

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 Petrol thefts surge as Iran war pushes up fuel costs

One petrol retailer says he is experiencing about five drive-offs a week at each forecourt, costing him thousands.

* Petrol theft has surged by 62% compared to a year ago, with an average forecourt experiencing 3.4 drive-offs per week.
* Drive-offs have become more common, with petrol retailers reporting around 5 incidents per site per week, up from 1-2 previously.
* The average value of a drive-off has risen by 46%, with thieves stealing an average of £67 worth of fuel per incident.
* Petrol and diesel prices have increased by £14 and £27 respectively since the US-Israel war with Iran began, causing widespread price rises at pumps.
* Police are taking a proactive approach to tackling fuel theft, working with retailers and cost recovery agencies to identify patterns and target repeat offenders.
* A government spokesperson has urged people to report any instances of fuel theft to the police and warned that thieves will "face the full force of the law".
* Petrol retailers have reported abuse from customers, including verbal attacks on staff, due in part to accusations of price gouging and profiteering.