Petrol thefts at UK forecourts have risen sharply, with new figures showing a 62% increase in drive-offs compared with a year earlier, as higher fuel prices put added pressure on motorists and retailers alike.
The data, compiled by fuel theft recovery company Pay My Fuel for the BBC, comes amid renewed concern over pump prices following tensions involving the Iran, Israel and the United States. Since the conflict began, the cost of filling a typical family petrol car has reportedly risen by £14, while diesel drivers have seen increases of around £27.
One forecourt operator with five sites in southern United Kingdom said thefts were now costing around £2,000 a week. He reported around five drive-offs a week at each site, compared with one or two previously.
Organised theft and rising concern
Retailers say incidents range from opportunistic non-payment to organised theft. CCTV footage cited in the report showed vehicles leaving without paying after taking varying amounts of fuel, from under £15 to more than £150.
According to Pay My Fuel, the average number of weekly drive-offs per forecourt rose from 2.1 in March 2025 to 3.4 in March 2026. The average value of stolen fuel also increased by 46%, rising from £56 to £67.
The company said theft levels were significantly worse in less affluent areas, with east and south east London, Glasgow, Manchester, Leeds and Birmingham highlighted as particular hotspots.
Pressure on independent forecourts
The Petrol Retailers Association said higher wholesale fuel costs had led to a noticeable rise in theft. It added that while some incidents may be linked to financial hardship, others appear to involve organised criminal behaviour.
Independent operators warned that repeated losses can ultimately feed through into prices. Retailers say margins on fuel remain slim, with taxation accounting for more than half of the pump price.
For driving instructors, fleet operators and trainers whose businesses depend on fuel, further volatility at the pumps could add to already rising operating costs. It also underlines the value of fuel-efficient lesson planning, route management and eco-driving techniques.
Police and government response
The National Business Crime Centre said fuel theft places an unacceptable strain on businesses and police resources. Forces are said to be working with retailers and recovery agencies to identify repeat offenders and target hotspots.
A government spokesperson said fuel theft undermines businesses and workers and that offenders should face the full force of the law.
Sourced via: BBC News
