Welsh oil tank owners warned of thefts

16/06/2008

Neath Port Talbot oil tank owners have been warned to be on their guard against thieves, it has been reported.

Local police have told the Neath Guardian that there was an attempted theft of heating fuel from an oil tank earlier this month.

A large vehicle was used to smash through gates at a farm in Banwen on June 3rd, before thieves attempted to drain the oil tank.

However, they were unsuccessful and left without damaging the tank or removing any heating oil.

Detective Inspector David Rees of Neath Port Talbot CID told the newspaper the attempt is considered to have been a pre-planned crime.

He continued: "Due to the rise in fuel prices we are advising anyone who stores any type of fuel, whether it is petrol, diesel or heating oil, to ensure they have security measures in place."

Last week, police in Northern Ireland also advised oil tank owners to tighten up their security precautions, reports the Fermanagh Herald.

The recommendation came after several attempted and successful thefts of heating oil were carried out, with businesses, schools, churches and community halls being warned.