An increase in fuel thefts throughout the Creston Valley has prompted Creston RCMP to issue a warning to residents and businesses.
Officers said there have been several incidents that members responded to involving gas and diesel being stolen from vehicles.
Creston RCMP said work trucks have been the prominent vehicles being stolen from with some thieves targeting auxiliary fuel storage tanks, otherwise known as tidy tanks.
Cpl. Brett Urano, Media Relations Officer for the BC RCMP, said the fuel thefts impact residents on a daily basis and as investigations into these incidents continue residents should take extra precautions.
“Fuel theft can have a significant financial impact on residents, businesses, contractors, and farmers who rely on their vehicles and equipment every day,” said Cpl. Urano.
“While officers continue to investigate these incidents, we encourage vehicle owners to take steps to reduce opportunities for thieves.”
Creston RCMP provided residents with some recommendations on extra protections for vehicles and fuel storage systems.
- Parking vehicles in locked compounds, garages, or secure areas whenever possible
- Parking in well-lit locations
- Utilizing security cameras or motion-activated lighting
- Using locking fuel caps and other anti-theft devices
- Regularly checking vehicles and fuel tanks for signs of tampering
- Reporting suspicious activity to police immediately
Anyone who witnesses any suspicious activity around parked vehicles, equipment, fuel tanks, or work sites is asked to contact the Creston RCMP.
