(MUNICIPALITY OF NORTH PERTH, ON) – On Wednesday March 30, 2016, Perth County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers were called to a farm property along Line 90, south of Palmerston, where the theft of fuel was discovered.
Investigation revealed that sometime between 10:30 p.m. Tuesday March 29th and 6:30 a.m. Wednesday March 30th, unknown suspect(s) drove a vehicle down the farm driveway towards the location of two bulk fuel tanks. The suspect vehicle was driven onto an unlit grassy area between outbuildings allowing approximately 1000 litres of diesel fuel to be siphoned from the unlocked tanks.
The Perth County OPP is requesting anyone who may have observed a suspicious vehicle (with a fuel tank in the back) along Line 90 or in the area south of Palmerston during the period on question, to contact them at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), and you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000
Taking into account the current Diesel fuel price, this is approximately a $900 theft.
With the desire for free fuel by the criminal element there are ways you can remove the “opportunity” and reduce the chances of becoming a victim.
Here are a few tips that might stop you from being targeted:
If you have bulk fuel stored on your property ensure you lock the tank and or dispenser to prevent access. Ensure the power to the pump is shut off.
Locate your bulk fuel tanks in illuminated areas within view of residences.
Call the police IMMEDIATELY if you witness suspicious activity in an area where fuel is stored, or if you see a suspicious vehicle driving around with no lights on.
Pay extra attention to suspicious pickup trucks having fuel tanks behind the cab or jerry cans in the box that are driving around rural roads near your farm.
Be a good witness, record descriptions of suspicious persons and vehicles. If a license plate is observed, write it down and call the police right away.
A dog that barks when strangers enter onto your property is also a good way to alert you to possible fuel thieves.
If strangers enter onto your farm during the day, be weary, as they may be scoping out your property.