Petrol Theft Increased 62% Amid Rising Fuel Prices in UK

Published on 4/20/2026

Petrol Theft Increased 62% Amid Rising Fuel Prices in UK

AI Summary

Petrol thefts in the UK have surged by 62% year-on-year, with forecourt owners reporting costs of £2,000 weekly from drive-offs across multiple locations. The average value of each drive-off has increased by 46%, rising from £56 to £67. Since the onset of the US-Israel war with Iran, filling a typical family car with petrol has increased by £14, while filling a diesel tank costs an additional £27. The Petrol Retailers Association indicated that these increases correlate with heightened theft incidents and abuse towards staff in the sector.