Boat fuel thefts on the rise

Rising oil prices are being blamed for an increasing number of fuel thefts from boats.

Rising oil prices are being blamed for an increasing number of fuel thefts from boats. The problem has hit petrol and diesel-engined craft on both sides of the Atlantic, and police are warning boatowners to be vigilant.

A recent spate of thefts in Exmouth led some boat owners to leave booby trapped fuel in ‘bait’ fuel cans. The fuel in the cans is mixed with acetone, which blows engines.

Devon & Cornwall Constabulary say that, while they can understand the owners’ anger and frustration, they cannot condone the actions.

Boat owners are instead being advised to ensure fuel is safely stored, and to make access more difficult for thieves by using locking fuel caps.

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