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The head of a rural community charity, Kate Clifford, director of the Rural Community Network (RCN), warned of rising home heating oil theft risks after her charity’s tank was stolen. She arrived at the charity’s offices to find the heat was not working, revealing damage to the tank after 1,000 litres of oil was confirmed stolen. The theft occurred in 2024, but the charity is speaking out as new figures show 600 reports of oil and fuel thefts in Northern Ireland since 2021.
Home heating oil is a critical energy source for nearly two-thirds of Northern Ireland’s households, with rural areas relying heavily on it. The theft felt premeditated, raising concerns about increased criminal activity. The charity had to spend additional funds on security measures.
The Consumer Council for Northern Ireland noted that oil thefts spike during energy crises, with prices rising due to geopolitical tensions. Police data shows thefts peaked in 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with 37 incidents in a single month. Recent conflicts in the Middle East have also driven up oil prices and increased thefts.
Security measures recommended include locking or alarming oil tanks, hardening fuel hoses, securing gardens, and installing security lighting. The PSNI advises reporting suspicious activity. Clifford highlights the vulnerability of rural households, particularly older people and low-income families, who lack access to alternative energy sources.
She urges neighbours to watch for suspicious behaviour and report incidents to the police.
Source: BBC
