Spiralling fuel costs leads to spate of Derry oil thefts

The PSNI at Strand Road received a series of reports of incidents at the end of last week.

"Unfortunately we have to re-appeal to residents to take extra steps to prevent home heating oil from being stolen following a number of reports of oil thefts and attempted thefts in Derry City and Strabane area over the past 24 hours," the force said in a statement on Saturday.

"We are all very aware of the rising costs of oil at the minute and the financial impact it would have on households if their oil was stolen."

Police urged citizens to take some simple measures to deter thieves.

"It's worth looking at some preventative measures to avoid being targeted by thieves and so as to avoid being left without oil. Securing your oil tank, keeping gates closed and locked can prevent a theft. Also using CCTV cameras and security lighting is advised.

"We would ask neighbours to keep an eye out for eachother, lookout for suspicious vehicles and if you see something that doesn't seem right, report it.

"For crime prevention information, call 101 and ask to speak with your local Crime Prevention Officer. You can also find tips on our website at https://bit.ly/3sSepD8," police said.