LONDON – The petrol theft has increased sharply across the United Kingdom amid rising fuel prices, with an estimated £200,000 worth of fuel being stolen every day, according to media reports.
The reported value of petrol theft has risen by 48% following the increase in fuel prices, highlighting growing concerns among fuel retailers across the country.
During the recent Iran conflict, petrol prices reportedly increased by 27 pence per litre, while diesel became 37 pence per litre more expensive. The higher costs have coincided with a significant rise in incidents of motorists leaving filling stations without paying for the fuel they have taken.
Some drivers are reportedly filling their vehicles and then driving away without settling the bill, contributing to mounting losses for petrol station operators.
The British fuel retail sector has also raised concerns over an increase in abusive behaviour towards station employees. The Petrol Retailers Association said staff members have faced more incidents of verbal abuse and other misconduct as fuel prices have climbed.
The latest trend has added to pressure on UK fuel retailers, who are dealing with both higher fuel costs and increasing losses linked to unpaid purchases.
