RCMP are investigating this fuel theft from the RM of Britannia. (Submitted/RCMP SK Media Relations)

By battlefordsNOW Staff

Stolen gas

Fuel theft in Hillmond under investigation

Jun 7, 2022 | 10:00 AM

The robbery of vehicle fuel has picked up in rural Saskatchewan.

Maidstone RCMP are currently searching for multiple suspects after an incident in the RM of Britannia. Members responded to a report around 1:00 a.m. Monday morning of theft of fuel at the local utility shop in Hillmond.

In supplied surveillance footage, there appears to be at least two suspects wearing mostly dark clothing, with one sporting a ball cap and the other in a hoodie. They are operating what looks like a full-size SUV.

(Submitted photo/RCMP SK Media Relations)

Police are seeking information from the public to assist in identifying the involved individuals and locating the vehicle. Anyone with relevant info can contact their local detachment at 310-RCMP or Crime Stoppers if they wish to remain anonymous.

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Growing trend

Saskatchewan RCMP released an analysis back in early May regarding an increase in fuel related thefts. Between January and April, there were 178 reports, 76 per cent more than the same period last year. In the media release, Acting Crim Reduction and Prevention Officer Monica Deters said it’s a significant trend.

“We can’t speculate on motives in these thefts but it is important that individuals and businesses be aware they may be occurring more frequently.”

This included reported thefts of both gasoline and diesel, 137 of which were from gas stations. Deters recommended implementing “pay before you pump” or other preventative policies.

“Businesses should also consider if their video surveillance and lighting are sufficient and located in appropriate locations for suspects and their vehicles to be identified in the event of a crime.”

There were also 10 reports of thefts from farm fuel tanks, 12 from bulk fuel tanks, 10 thefts of jerry cans and nine regarding siphoning/drilling gas tanks.

Deters offered additional tips to help prevent fuel theft, including parking with the fuel door facing a frequently traveled road.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW