Petrol theft across the UK has risen sharply, with new figures showing a 62% increase in drive-offs compared with last year, amid soaring fuel prices linked to the US-Israel conflict with Iran.
Data from Pay My Fuel indicates the average number of weekly drive-offs per forecourt climbed from 2.1 in March 2025 to 3.4 in March 2026. The average value of stolen fuel has also increased by 46%, rising from £56 to £67.
Retailers say the spike in theft has been accompanied by growing abuse of staff, as higher pump prices fuel public frustration. Since the conflict began, filling a typical petrol car has risen by £14, while diesel costs have increased by about £27.
One forecourt owner in southern England reported losing up to £2,000 a week across five sites, with incidents now occurring multiple times daily. While some cases involve people unable to pay, industry figures say much of the theft appears organised and deliberate.
The Petrol Retailers Association noted that rising living costs may be contributing to some incidents, though organised crime is also a factor. Police say they are taking a proactive approach, working with retailers to identify repeat offenders and reduce theft.
The government has condemned fuel theft and staff abuse, warning offenders will face legal consequences and urging the public to report incidents