PRA ‘alarmed’ at police comments on petrol theft

The Petrol Retailers Association (PRA) has raised their concerns following news that a UK police force has declared that driving away from a petrol station without paying for fuel is no longer considered a crime.

Devon and Cornwall Police said it would not investigate such incidents unless there was obvious proof of criminal intent – such as false number plates – and the force has blamed government cuts for the decision.

Brian Madderson, PRA chairman comments, “We are alarmed by the growing rate of petrol theft over the last 5 years. Incidents of bilking have risen due to pump prices going up steeply, and now that police are broadcasting this as a low priority, this will no doubt encourage thieves further.

“Forecourts are being urged to be proactive and toughen up their security, however smaller independent garages who don’t have the financial resources will still largely be at risk. Petrol retailers are paying high business rates, part of which contributes towards spending in the police force, and so for the police to put sole responsibility of fuel theft on the garage is both unfair and irresponsible.

“The PRA has written to The Rt Hon Mike Penning MP informing him of our concerns surrounding this issue and we have requested an immediate meeting to discuss the seriousness of this growing problem amongst police authorities.”

PRA member Clive Sheppard of Bodmin Moor Services has also stated that, “This new initiative seems very ill considered, undermines the credibility of the Police and ultimately puts the public at risk as we are seemingly being encouraged to tackle crime ourselves.”