New Zealand Police say there has been no discernible change in reports of fuel theft so far, but they are watching closely for any rise in offending as global fuel pressures leave some people worried about crime.
In a statement, Assistant Commissioner Tusha Penny said police understand the “global fuel situation” is making people nervous and raising concerns that it could drive an increase in fuel theft and related offenses. Nationally, police are monitoring for trends, but Penny said it is too early to determine whether there has been any notable change.
Penny said police will remain visible in communities and will respond to incidents as they arise. She also urged people to take practical steps to reduce opportunities for theft, particularly in rural areas and at retail sites.
For agricultural communities and businesses, police recommended limiting access to fuel tanks by parking vehicles with fuel caps close to a wall or another vehicle, keeping fuel out of sight, and securing and locking tanks to deter theft and tampering. Police also encouraged installing security lighting around fuel tanks and fueling areas, keeping an inventory of fuel consumption to identify losses quickly, and fitting locking devices to petrol and diesel tanks.
For residential vehicles, police said many modern cars have anti-siphoning features, but advised drivers to lock vehicles in a garage when possible or park on private property with the fuel cap positioned to restrict access. Police also recommended security or sensor lighting, using a car alarm and parking in well-lit locations if vehicles must be left on the street.
Police said they have been engaging with petrol stations and that there has been no detectable change in crime reporting at this stage. For retailers, police recommended measures such as pre-pay or pump pre-authorization during elevated risk periods, maintaining staff visibility on the forecourt, securing tank and fill-point access, reviewing and testing CCTV coverage, ensuring lighting is fully operational, and considering regular overnight security patrols.
Police urged the public to report suspicious behavior and incidents through 105 or 105.police.govt.nz for non-urgent matters, or 111 for emergencies.
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