The new scheme, Forecourt Watch, is being rolled out at eight sites across Aberdeen, and is the latest addition to some 70 schemes already operational throughout the UK.
BOSS estimates that overall forecourt crime throughout Britain (excluding credit card fraud) cost the oil retailing industry more than GB pound 19 million last year. This is according to reports produced by oil companies including BP and Shell.
Commenting on the introduction of the scheme, which was officially launched last week at the Shell Don service station, chief inspector George Macdonald said: “Forecourt Watch is being launched to tackle the issue of drive-off thefts from garage forecourts in Aberdeen.
“Grampian Police will deal with those who carry out these types of theft in a robust manner. This initiative should send out a clear message that thefts from petrol stations will not be tolerated.
“These incidents are often linked to other road traffic offences such as car theft, and Grampian Police will support any initiative which aims to tackle these issues within our communities.”
Links to other types of crime
Research shows that offences of driving off without paying for fuel are often linked to offenders or vehicles involved in other types of crime and to disqualified drivers, those without insurance, tax or MOT or vehicles with false number plates.
As part of the scheme, BOSS Forecourt Watch documentation for the recording and notification of drive-off incidents will be provided to staff at all service stations taking part in the scheme. High visibility stickers and posters will also be put in place to signal the presence of Forecourt Watch.
Jim Anderson, BOSS’ regional co-ordinator, said: “Drive-off incidents cost the UK oil industry approximately GB pound 14 million last year. By building successful partnerships with local police services, petrol retailers and other agencies through initiatives such as the BOSS Forecourt Watch schemes we’re able to deter and prevent crime on service station forecourts.”