Police to assess service station security measures

Over the next three to four weeks, Volunteers in Policing will be surveying all 56 service stations throughout the ACT seeking information about these businesses’ security measures.

With petrol theft on the increase, feedback from these assessments will assist police in determining what security measures are already in place, and to provide advice as requested on measures to prevent or reduce fuel theft.

The purpose of the audit is to gather data about the security of premises and seek feedback from service station proprietors, with emphasis on the issue of petrol theft.

Petrol thefts are increasing throughout the ACT. Over the 9 months from July 1, 2006 to April 30 2007, there were 759 recorded in the ACT. In the corresponding period from July 1, 2007 to April 30, 2008, there were 1134 thefts recorded. This is a 33 per cent increase.

The information sought by police includes the quality and positioning of CCTV cameras. High quality security CCTV footage assists police in identifying repeat petrol theft offenders.

Newly-appointed Business Liaison Officer for ACT Policing Senior Constable Raquel James said police would welcome the opportunity to advise service station proprietors on strategies which would help address this growing issue.

“Some simple methods by proprietors, such as briefing your operators on the type of suspicious behaviour to look out for; ensuring your operator has a clear view of all the pumps, and offering only pre-paid fuel during certain hours are just a few of the methods which make it tougher for fuel thieves,” Senior Constable James said.

Police will analyse the data gathered and seek the service station industry’s co-operation in developing sustainable, long-term strategies against fuel theft.

Any business enquiries can be directed to Business Liaison Officer Senior Constable Raquel James on (02) 62457255.