A haulage company in Worcester has reported the theft of 400 liters of diesel from two vehicles, with the company director attributing the crime to soaring fuel prices. Martin Pinches, director of M Pinches & Sons Ltd, stated that the theft occurred over the weekend and that the missing fuel, valued at approximately £800, had become akin to "liquid gold" due to its high cost.
Pinches explained that the theft represented an "added cost that everyone has been burdened with," disproportionately affecting businesses like his that rely heavily on fuel. The incident also resulted in additional expenses and lost revenue, as thieves damaged fuel sending units and fuel caps on the vehicles, necessitating a day of repairs.
West Mercia Police confirmed they received a report of a burglary at the business between October 24 and 25, during which a significant quantity of fuel was stolen from two lorries. The force stated that inquiries are ongoing.
Fuel prices have seen a sharp increase, with diesel reaching record highs above £2 per liter, influenced by global events. The cost of filling a typical family car with diesel has risen by about £30 since late February, while petrol has increased by approximately £23. In response to the economic pressures, the government has extended the 5p per liter fuel duty cut on petrol and diesel, originally introduced in 2022, until July. This duty, which had been scheduled to be phased out in January, means drivers will continue to pay a levy of 52p per liter.
Pinches expressed concern that such incidents could occur again, noting that the company might consider instructing drivers to refuel only on the morning of their departures to mitigate future risks.