Diesel Fuel Theft Increases in New South Wales Amid Rising Prices

Hannah's Haulage, a trucking company based in Riverstone, Greater Western Sydney, reported the theft of nearly $10,000 worth of diesel from its trucks in the past month. The thefts involved siphoning fuel from truck tanks while drivers were parked overnight. Three trucks were affected, with two incidents in New South Wales and one in Brisbane.

Scott Hannah, the owner of Hannah's Haulage, stated that the targeting began about a month ago as fuel prices rose due to the war in the Middle East. He described thieves using containers ranging from 20 liters to 1,000 liters to siphon fuel. Most incidents occurred when drivers parked on the side of the road for the night, often while asleep in the trucks.

The company installed 24-hour cameras on the trucks, but Hannah noted limitations in identifying perpetrators who wore balaclavas or dark clothing. Drivers have become more cautious about parking locations during travels across New South Wales and interstate. Hannah expressed frustration but acknowledged limited options to prevent the thefts.

Detective Acting Inspector Andrew McLean reported an increase in fuel theft cases amid current high prices.

The thefts have occurred in various locations, including road works and construction sites. McLean indicated a broad range of reported incidents across these areas. Mechanics in Western Sydney, such as those at Leo's Truck and Trailer Repairs in Wetherill Park, have seen a rise in customers with damaged trucks from break-ins and fuel siphoning.

Owner Leo Potros, with 23 years in the industry, stated this trend is unprecedented. His staff recovered a vehicle the previous night where fuel had been siphoned after a break-in, preventing the driver from starting it for work. Potros reported repairing more than 10 fuel tanks in the past month, with costs to customers reaching around $2,000 per incident due to after-hours service and distance.

Customers have added measures like fuel tank locks and extra cameras, though thieves continue to bypass them. Dimitry Chrisis, director of Clean My DPF in Western Sydney, noted that high fuel prices are straining truck operators, with some considering pulling vehicles off the road due to expenses.

O'Hara, chief executive of Road Freight NSW, observed a rise in organized crime targeting trucks in Sydney and regional areas, particularly flatbed trucks with intermediate bulk containers.

Thieves have also broken into heavy vehicle yards. O'Hara stated the issue began in earnest in regional New South Wales with reports of tank thefts and is now spreading to Sydney, prompting trucking companies to enhance yard security. The ongoing Middle East conflict continues to pressure global fuel supplies and prices.

Industry representatives anticipate potential further increases in thefts if these conditions persist. Affected parties include trucking companies, drivers, mechanics, and police resources in New South Wales and beyond.