Fuel thieves hit cars and homes

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Police have warned car and homeowners to be extra vigilant after thieves began targetting petrol and diesel stored in or around homes and in vehicles.

Soaring oil prices are leading to thieves siphoning off diesel and oil from storage tanks and even HGV lorries parked up for the night, police said today.

Hampshire police warned homeowners and farmers to secure their fuel supplies because the thefts are becoming such a problem. Officers said that on several occasions, domestic oil tanks have been drained overnight.

Similar incidents have occurred on farm estates where self-contained diesel tanks have been left dry. HGV lorries parked overnight at service stations have also been targeted.

A police spokesman said: "With the price of fuel rising we have seen an increase in these types of crime. "It is important that anyone storing fuel ensures it is safe and secure and not an easy target for thieves."

The problem has been reported by forces across the country and officers are advising people to take simple precautions such as putting vehciles in garages overnight to avoid theft, damage and having to make a car or home insurance claim.

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