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Warning to motorists over stolen and contaminated fuel 14 December 2011 Customs and Police are warning motorists not to accept fuel from unknown sources as it might be stolen or contaminated. Anyone purchasing fuel from sources other than reputable fuel companies or garages should be aware that there is a risk that the oil may have been stolen or is contaminated with 'rebated fuel' that is not for use in road vehicles. The increasing cost of oil in recent years has given rise to a black market in stolen fuel. Thieves will usually choose easy targets, such as home heating oil tanks or building sites, typically breaking into properties at night. The types of fuel stolen are much cheaper than petrol or diesel, and this means that security precautions taken to protect them may be less. Fuel such as gas oil ('red diesel') and home heating oils (including kerosene) are referred to as 'rebated oil' and their use is restricted - meaning they are not normally allowed to be used as fuel in a road vehicle. Graham Dugdale, Law Enforcement Surveyor of Isle of Man Customs and Excise stated, "I would urge people to be extremely cautious if they are offered fuel originating from an unknown source. Persons found using rebated oil in their vehicles risk having those vehicles seized by Customs and Excise and/or being fined, - and then the cheap fuel they bought would not seem such a bargain". Customs and Excise and the Police undertake regular checks in order to detect and deter the use of rebated oil. Rebated oil contains chemical markers (not visible to the naked eye), whilst gas oil also contains a red dye. Even the smallest traces of the dye or markers can be detected using test kits, thus the use of such fuel just once will contaminate subsequent regular fuel. Identification of even very small traces can lead to action being taken against both the driver and the registered owner of the vehicle. Fuel obtained from unofficial sources contaminated with gas oil or kerosene or other chemicals may give a positive indication if tested, and it can also cause serious damage to engines as some fuels are not designed to work in motor vehicles - with little possibility of your supplier being willing or able to compensate you. Constable Mike Radcliffe, the Isle of Man Constabulary Crime Reduction Officer stated, "It should also be remembered that these are not victimless crimes. Finances are tight for everyone and as a result this type of crime could affect any one of us. Our records show that criminals have targeted both domestic and commercial vehicles and properties during fuel and oil thefts. People being willing to buy fuel with 'no questions asked' creates a ready market for this type of crime". For more information about the use of rebated oil please contact Isle of Man Customs and Excise on 648110. If you have information about fuel or heating oil thefts please contact the Isle of Man Constabulary on 631212. You can also pass on information anonymously by ringing Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. More stories >>> |
