Devon farmers warned over fuel theft as police say 'stay vigilant'
With fuel costs continuing to pressure rural businesses, police are urging farmers to secure storage tanks, monitor fuel levels and report suspicious activity
Farmers across Devon and Dartmoor are being urged to check the security of fuel and heating oil tanks as prices remain high and rural businesses face continued pressure on costs.
Devon and Cornwall Police’s Rural Affairs Team is encouraging farmers to take preventative measures to reduce the risk of fuel theft, although the force says it has not seen a significant increase in reports across the two counties.
“At present, we have not seen any significant increase in reports of fuel or heating oil theft within Devon and Cornwall,” said Lee Skinner of the force’s Rural Affairs Team.
However, rising prices can make stored fuel an attractive target, and theft can leave farms facing replacement costs, damage to tanks and storage areas, and disruption to daily operations.
Advice for farmers
Police are urging farmers to check fuel and oil tanks regularly, particularly those situated away from farmyards or out of public view.
The force recommends fitting good-quality locks, security lighting, CCTV or alarm systems where practical.
Recording fuel levels can also help farmers identify unusual losses at an early stage.
Farmers are advised to keep storage areas secure, restrict access to trusted staff and consider whether tanks can be seen from nearby roads or public rights of way.
Skinner also highlighted the role rural communities can play in reporting suspicious activity.
“If you notice suspicious vehicles, people showing unusual interest in fuel storage and farms, or activity that seems out of place, please report it on 999 if it is ongoing or 101 to pass non-emergency information,” he said.
Police say early reports can help prevent offences and protect neighbouring farms and businesses.
Fuel prices remain a concern
The warning comes as fuel prices continue to affect household and business budgets across the Dartmoor area.
PetrolPrices.com listings supplied for Friday, 16 October, showed unleaded at 164.9p a litre at Shell Trago Mills, compared with 168.9p at Gulf Okehampton’s Exbourne Cross Garage, and 172.9p at Morrisons in Tavistock
The prices were last updated on different dates, so they do not represent a simultaneous comparison across all three stations.
For farms that rely on fuel for machinery, vehicles and daily operations, protecting stored supplies can help avoid the additional cost and disruption of replacing stolen fuel.
Police said: “Staying vigilant and maintaining good security practices remains the best defence against rural crime.”
Farmers are being encouraged to review their existing arrangements and address any weaknesses before they become a target.