(TOWNSHIP OF PERTH EAST, ON) The Perth County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is currently investigating two incidents involving the theft of fuel from farms near Sebringville.
One incident occurred around 4 a.m. on Saturday May 02, 2017 at a farm on Road 140 North West of Sebringville. The culprit(s) gained access to the bulk fuel tank near a drive shed by driving a pickup truck through a field. They removed approximately 800 litres of unleaded fuel from the tank. A pickup truck was observed leaving the scene without its headlights on.
On Sunday morning May 24, 2015 the owner of a farm located on Line 39, North West of Sebringville, contacted police to report the theft of approximately 400 litres of diesel fuel from two bulk tanks on his farm.
It is suspected that the culprit(s) utilized a pickup truck with a holding tank to remove the fuel. Access to the bulk tanks was gained by driving across a newly planted corn field sometime between midnight and 5 a.m. on Sunday morning.
These fuel thefts reveal the determination on the part of thieves to steal fuel. The high fuel prices create the desire for free fuel, whether that is a gasoline drive-off, or using a siphon hose to pilfer it from a private bulk tank.
There are a number of 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.
Consider installing a good quality locking gas cap. Remember that many of the “fuel doors” that open remotely or with a key are flimsy and easily compromised.
Avoid parking in dark, isolated areas (especially for extended periods).
At home park in a locked garage where possible. If you don’t have a garage park as close as possible to the house and avoid parking on the street.
If you must park on a street or in a parking lot attempt to locate your vehicle so the fuel door is visible to you or other residents in your area.
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 in view of residences.
Call the police IMMEDIATELY if you witness suspicious activity in an area where fuel is stored or around parked vehicles. Be a good witness, record descriptions of suspicious persons and vehicles. If a license plate is observed write it down.
The Perth County OPP is requesting anyone who may have information about these thefts to contact them at 1-888-310-1122 or to call CRIME STOPPERS at 1-800-222-8477.