Statement in the name of Tusha Penny, Assistant Commissioner Road Policing and District Support:
We understand that the global fuel situation is causing people to feel nervous and some are concerned it could lead to an increase in fuel theft and related crime.
Nationally, Police is watching closely for any trends around fuel theft and associated offences.
At this stage, it is too early to determine any notable change in offending.
Police will remain visible in our communities and will respond to any incidents as they arise.
We know many people feel more reassured if they know what steps they can take to help keep themselves and their property safe. Prevention advice is provided below.
For agricultural communities and businesses
The existing information in the joint crime prevention guide between Police, FMG, and Federated Farmers is below and at: fmg-rural-crime-prevention-advice-guide.pdf
• Park vehicles with fuel caps close to the wall or another vehicle to restrict access to fuel tanks.
• Try to keep fuel out of sight, and ensure fuel tanks are secured and locked to restrict theft and tampering.
• Install security lighting that lights up fuel tanks and fuelling areas.
• Keep an inventory of fuel consumption so any thefts can be identified quickly.
• Install fuel tank locking devices on all petrol and diesel tanks on your property.
Residential vehicles
Many modern cars have anti-siphoning techniques installed, but other ways to minimise risk of fuel theft or siphoning are:
• Keep your car locked in a garage. If you can't park your car in a garage then park it on your property with the fuel cap close to the wall or another vehicle to restrict access.
• Have security/sensor lighting on around your car if possible.
• If you have to park your car on the road, then try to park it in a well-lit location.
• Use a car alarm.
Petrol stations and retailers
Police has been engaging with petrol stations and there has been no discernible change in crime reporting at this stage, and our reporting also backs that up. For retailers, Police recommends the below prevention measures:
• Use pre-pay or pump pre-authorisation during times of elevated risk
• Have staff maintain strong visibility on the forecourt
• Check all tank and fill-point access to ensure covers, storage zones, and restricted areas are secure and locked at all times.
• Review and test CCTV coverage, ensuring pumps, entrances/exits, and tank access points are clearly recorded.
• Ensure lighting is bright and fully operational across the forecourt, storage areas, and rear-of-site access points.
• Engage regular security patrols, especially overnight, to reinforce site visibility and deter offending.
• Report all suspicious behaviour or incidents to Police: 105 or 105.police.govt.nz for non-urgent matters; or 111 for emergency situations that are happening now.
