Police appeal after heating fuel stolen from home near Keith
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Police are appealing for witnesses and asking residents in rural areas to be vigilant following the theft of approximately 1000 litres of heating fuel from a residential home near Keith.
The fuel along with a power washer is believed to have been stolen between midnight and 8am on Thursday, February 8 from the home which is located north of Keith on the A96.
Anyone with information can contact the police on 101 or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting reference number CR/0051041/24.
North East Division crime reduction officer PC Richard Russell said: "Heating oil tanks have the potential to store thousands of pounds worth of fuel, and are often located in remote areas – this can make them an attractive target for thieves.
"With spiralling oil and gas costs we can expect to see an increase in this type of crime. Being a victim of heating oil theft is a costly, inconvenient and upsetting experience.
"In order to steal heating oil, thieves will usually decant, syphon or pump oil from your tank into other containers. Thieves might use this oil themselves, or sell it on."
Advice regarding home security can be found at www.scotland.police.uk
Visit www.securedbydesign.com/guidance/crime-prevention-advice/fuel-theft for advice on how to protect heating fuel.
