Suffolk Police are renewing their appeal to lorry drivers and haulage companies to stay vigilant as thieves increasingly target heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) for fuel theft. A recent string of thefts along the A14 and A12 has seen diesel siphoned from parked HGVs in laybys and lorry parks overnight, leaving damage to fuel caps and tanks. Authorities believe the true number of incidents may be higher than reported, with some cases going unrecorded.

Since 17 October, four confirmed incidents have occurred in locations including Haughley, Creeting St Peter, Creeting St Mary, and Kentford’s Herringswell Road. Police urge all drivers to report any thefts, as well as suspicious activity around parked HGVs, to help gather crucial evidence. Superintendent Matthew Carney advised, "If you notice any unusual activity near vehicles at night, reporting it immediately via 999 can significantly improve our chances of catching those involved."

The force highlights that HGVs are often prime targets due to their large fuel tanks and the fact that thefts often take place while drivers are resting. Fuel theft not only incurs financial losses but also causes costly damage to vehicle parts like fuel caps, tanks, and fuel lines.

Secured By Design, a police initiative for crime prevention, advises on measures to help deter theft, including installing alert devices that notify drivers if fuel or vehicle parts are being tampered with.