Leeds diesel thieves go for bunker stocks
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• Diesel thieves are targeting hauliers' bunkered fuel tanks in depots near Leeds.
In one theft a haulier lost more than 10,000 gallons in what could be a highly organised operation that may have hit as many as 30 depots.
Margaret Edmunds, Yorkshire area manager for the Road Haulage Association, is appearing for members to look out for a blue F-registered Vauxhall Astra van and a white van with the word "maintenance" on the side. The thieves are thought to siphon the tanks via the inlet pipe.
"If people see these vehicles acting suspiciously they should ring the police straight away. They may be eyeing the job up," says Edmunds. "People must be vigilant especially in view of the recent diesel price rises. Padlocks on the access points are essential. We are not sure exactly how many people have been affected but every time it comes up another haulier says it has happened to him," she adds.
Police at Holbeck, West Yorkshire, confirm they are looking into the crimes. Acting inspector Gerry Newton says: We've made a number of arrests in the past couple of months. People have been in possession of pumps and 50 or 60 metres of hose. They're very well organised."
Newton adds that hauliers should look into security at depots and consider hiring a guard.