Police said the loss of a large amount of fuel was a major hit for a local business (file photo).
Photo: 123rf
Police are investigating a theft of more than 3000 litres of diesel in the Manawatū town of Marton this week.
Sergeant Wayne Sandbrook said two men arrived early on Tuesday morning at a Marton business in a white light truck and filled a small fuel trailer, a fuel pod and drums with diesel from an on-site tank.
Sandbrook said the loss of a large amount of fuel was a major hit for a local business.
Police had noted a nationwide trend of attempted fuel thefts, and cases had come before the courts in Hamilton and Christchurch this week.
“Both people involved have attempted to hide their identity, but we’re continuing to make enquiries to hold these offenders to account,” Sandbrook said.
“We would like to hear from anyone who saw a white-coloured light truck towing a small fuel trailer in the Marton area around the time of the offending, or any other suspicious activity.”
Anyone with information was urged to call or log onto the 105 website and use the reference number 260407/4600, or call Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
“Offending like this hurts hard-working people in our community, and our message to people is if you see anything suspicious, please report it to us immediately.”
Teen charged over vehicle, fuel thefts in Southland
Police investigating a series of burglaries and fuel thefts in Southland have arrested a 17-year-old youth.
Invercargill’s area prevention manager Acting Inspector Mel Robertson said several rural thefts occurred overnight last Tuesday, with significant quantities of fuel among the items taken.
“Six vehicles were stolen, along with hundreds of litres diesel and petrol, but police have been able to recover five of the vehicles thanks to GPS tracking.”
He said the offending caused significant distress and upheaval for hard-working people.
“Anyone who is thinking of stealing fuel or vehicles should take this as a warning – we will act immediately and use our resources to find and prosecute anyone involved.”
The youth was arrested after a search warrant was executed at an Invercargill property.
He has been charged with burglary relating to the theft of fuel from a tractor and further charges were being considered.
He is due to appear in the Invercargill Youth Court later this month.
An 18-year-old at the property was also arrested and charged with receiving stolen goods.
He is due to appear in the Invercargill District Court on 14 April.
Nine 20 litre cans containing different fuels have been recovered.
“Unfortunately, this is a timely reminder for everyone, especially those in rural communities, to look at their security, especially around fuel,” Robertson said.
Further arrests might be made, he said.
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