Police have renewed warnings urging lorry drivers and haulage company owners to remain vigilant, as thieves continue to target heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) for fuel theft.
Suffolk Police issued the alert following a series of recent incidents where diesel has been stolen from HGVs parked overnight in laybys and lorry parks along the A14 and A12 routes. Officers believe the actual number of thefts may be higher, as not all incidents are being reported.
A police spokesperson stressed the importance of reporting all fuel thefts to help gather crucial evidence.
Since 17 October, four thefts have been reported in lorry parks or laybys along the A14, including at Haughley, Creeting St Peter, Creeting St Mary, and Herringswell Road in Kentford.
Superintendent Matthew Carney said: “Thieves are damaging and breaking fuel caps to access the fuel. I urge lorry drivers and haulage companies to take preventative measures to avoid becoming victims.
“If you are a victim, please report it immediately. If you witness suspicious activity, such as people tampering with lorries at night, report it straight away by calling 999. This gives us the best chance of catching those responsible.”
Commercial vehicles are often prime targets due to the large quantities of fuel they carry, and thefts typically occur while drivers are asleep in their vehicles. In addition to stolen fuel, thieves can cause damage to fuel caps, tanks, and fuel lines.
The Secured By Design initiative provides crime prevention advice, including fitting devices that alert drivers when fuel is being stolen or when parts of their vehicle are being tampered with.
