world
UK Petrol Thefts Rise 62% Amid Fuel Price Increases from Iran Conflict
Petrol thefts in the UK have increased by 62% compared to a year ago, according to data compiled for the BBC. Retailers report higher incidents of drive-offs and staff abuse linked to elevated fuel costs from the US-Israel war with Iran. Government and police officials stated that fuel thieves should face legal consequences and that proactive measures are in place.
Apr 21, 4:59 AM·2m read1 source
Substrate placeholder — needs reviewAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Developing·Limited corroboration so far. This page will refresh as more sources emerge.
Petrol thefts in the UK have surged by 62% compared to a year ago, based on data from fuel theft recovery company Pay My Fuel compiled for the BBC. The average number of drive-offs per forecourt per week rose from 2.1 in March 2025 to 3.4 in March 2026.
The average value of each drive-off increased by 46%, from £56 to £67. Fuel retailers have also reported increased abuse toward staff due to high fuel prices stemming from the US-Israel war with Iran. Since the conflict began, the cost to fill a typical family car with petrol has risen by £14, and diesel by £27.
The RAC reported that petrol prices remain 19.2% higher than pre-war levels, with diesel 34.5% higher.
Josh, a petrol retailer operating five garages in southern England, reported experiencing about five drive-offs per week at each site, up from one or two previously. He shared CCTV footage showing incidents including a motorbike with two people fueling £14.97 and leaving, a white van taking £151.53, and a white Porsche SUV with £75.15.
Josh stated that most incidents involve organized theft rather than desperation, estimating a weekly cost of £2,000 across his sites. Rachael King, forecourt manager for three petrol stations in Gloucestershire, said drive-offs have increased and could lead to higher fuel prices to offset losses.
She noted that independent operators cannot absorb these costs. King added that continued thefts would force retailers to maintain elevated prices to cushion financial impacts.
