After a doubling of oil prices in recent weeks, gardaí have revealed that oil tanks are now a prime target for opportunistic thieves north and south of the county.
Gardaí are investigating reports of home heating oil thefts from a house in the area of Fahan and also in the area of Ballyshannon.
A fill of 1,000 litres now costs up to €1,700 locally, and thieves are looking to cash in on poorly secured oil tanks.
Gardaí have shared preventative measures that residents can take to avoid theft of their home heating oil:
• Check oil levels frequently.
• Attach tank locks.
• Install lockable access gates.
• Install a tank alarm system, which warns if the oil level drops suddenly.
• Increase Security lighting around the home particularly to the rear and sides.
• Keep your tank hidden if possible and if this is not possible, have plants, shrubs or lockable fencing around your tank, including over the top.
• Be vigilant following an oil delivery.
• Consider installing CCTV. Placing a highly visible camera on your property may act as a deterrent to thieves.
• Look out for your neighbours and always report any type of suspicious activity or vehicles to Gardaí immediately.
Heating oil thefts reported across Donegal as prices soar was last modified: March 16th, 2026 by Staff Writer