Urgent warning issued as US-Iran war sparks fuel thefts across UK

WorldBusiness & Finance
20 Apr 2026 • 9:36 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • UK petrol stations have experienced a near-30 per cent surge in fuel thefts, which could cost the forecourt sector over £100m annually.
  • The increase is attributed to rising fuel prices, with diesel up 48.6 pence per litre and petrol up 25.1 pence per litre since the conflict in Iran began.
  • The British Oil Security Syndicate (BOSS) reported a 19 per cent rise in unpaid fuel incidents in March, surpassing the highs seen in 2022.
  • Forecourt Eye, a crime prevention specialist, noted a 22 per cent rise in 'no means of payment' incidents and a 6 per cent increase in drive-offs across 500 forecourts.
  • BOSS advises petrol station operators to be extra vigilant during peak periods, watching for customers who make small purchases but do not pay for their fuel.

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