Suffolk Police have issued a renewed warning about an increase in fuel thefts from heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). Thefts are occurring mainly in laybys and lorry parks along the A14 and A12 corridors, often overnight when vehicles are unattended. Police are urging lorry drivers and haulage business owners to be extra cautious, as these thefts have become more common in recent weeks.
Since mid-October, there have been at least four reported fuel thefts from HGVs parked in these areas, including incidents at Haughley, Creeting St Peter, Creeting St Mary, and Herringswell Road, Kentford. However, Suffolk Police believe that many thefts go unreported, meaning the true scale of the problem may be larger than the numbers suggest.
Why Are HGVs a Target?
HGVs are an attractive target for thieves because they carry large quantities of fuel, which can be easily stolen. Diesel is a valuable commodity, and with rising fuel prices, the financial gain for criminals is significant. These thefts are often carried out quickly and quietly, typically during the night when the vehicles are parked and drivers are asleep inside, making it difficult for them to detect the crime until the morning.
The damage caused during these thefts can be significant, with thieves sometimes damaging fuel caps, tanks, and fuel lines while stealing the diesel. This adds extra costs for haulage operators, who not only lose the value of the stolen fuel but also have to pay for repairs.
The Impact on Haulage Businesses
For haulage companies, the financial impact of fuel theft is a growing concern. The immediate loss of fuel, especially with high fuel costs, is a heavy blow. But there is also the added cost of repairing any damage to the vehicle. Depending on the extent of the damage, this can lead to significant repair bills and extended downtime, which disrupts business operations. Delays in deliveries can also damage customer relationships and affect the business’s reputation.
What Can Haulage Operators Do to Protect Their Vehicles?
To help protect vehicles and minimise the risk of theft, Suffolk Police recommend that lorry drivers and haulage operators take the following steps:
- Report Theft Incidents Promptly: Even if the theft seems minor, it’s important to report any stolen fuel or damage to the police. This helps the authorities track crime patterns and take action to prevent further incidents.
- Enhance Vehicle Security: Invest in additional security measures to make it harder for thieves to steal fuel. Options include lockable fuel caps, secure fuel tank covers, and anti-theft devices that make it difficult to access the fuel tank.
- Use Fuel Theft Detection Systems: There are now devices available that can alert drivers if someone is tampering with their fuel tank or vehicle parts. These systems can notify the driver or fleet manager immediately, allowing them to respond quickly and potentially prevent the theft.
- Park in Secure, Well-Lit Areas: When possible, drivers should aim to park in secure, well-lit areas or official lorry parks with security surveillance. These areas are less likely to be targeted by thieves and provide an added layer of protection.
- Install Fuel Monitoring Systems: Using fuel monitoring technology allows businesses to track fuel levels in real-time. This makes it easier to spot any discrepancies or thefts early on, reducing the impact and enabling a quicker response.
Conclusion
Fuel theft from HGVs is a growing problem that affects lorry drivers and haulage companies across Suffolk. With the value of diesel continuing to rise, thieves are increasingly targeting commercial vehicles. While these crimes are often difficult to prevent entirely, haulage operators can take proactive steps to reduce the risk of theft.
By improving security measures, using technology to detect thefts, and reporting incidents promptly, operators can help safeguard their vehicles and minimise the financial impact of these crimes. Staying vigilant and taking precautions is key to protecting both drivers and businesses from the consequences of fuel theft.
