Diesel fuel tanks branded "liquid gold" to criminals as thefts more than double to record levels

Diesel thefts reported to the UK’s leading rural insurer more than doubled in 2022 as the price of diesel rocketed, with latest NFU Mutual claims figures showing the cost of diesel theft rose to a record £886,197 during the year.

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite and diesel prices remain close to record levels, the insurer is concerned that diesel raids could continue to increase in coming months.

September was the costliest month last year, with claims amounting to £229,537 compared to £36,237 in 2021.

NFU Mutual Rural Affairs Specialist Hannah Binns says: “With diesel costing around £1.75 at the pumps, farmers’ fuel tanks are now like liquid gold to thieves.

“Farmers need fuel to keep the nation fed, so these thefts are a major concern for agriculture at a time when fast-rising input costs are adding further pressures on rural businesses.

“As well as the loss of vital fuel, thieves often damage tanks leaving fuel running into the ground where it can cause horrendous pollution as well as an increased fire risk.

“We are urging farmers and other rural businesses to review and upgrade their security systems to protect diesel stocks from thieves.”