MOTORISTS in the Isle of Man have been warned not to accept fuel from unknown sources.
Police and Customs and Excise have warned that anyone purchasing fuel from sources other than reputable fuel companies or garages may be at risk.
They say the fuel may have been stolen or contaminated with "rebated fuel" that is not for use in road vehicles.
Graham Dugdale, a law enforcement surveyor for Isle of Man Customs and Excise, said: "I would urge people to be extremely cautious if they are offered fuel originating from an unknown source.
"Persons found using rebated oil in their vehicles risk having those vehicles seized by Customs and Excise and/or being fined - and then the cheap fuel they bought would not seem such a bargain."
The increasing cost of oil in recent years has given rise to stolen fuel being sold on the black market.
Customs and Excise have said thieves choose easy targets to steal from such as home heating oil tanks or building sites.
The type of fuel stolen is much cheaper than petrol or diesel. Gas oil (also known as red diesel) and home heating oils including kerosene are referred to as rebated oil and this use is restricted.
Customs and Excise and the police undertake regular checks in order to detect and deter the use of rebated oil.
Identification of rebated oil in a road vehicle can lead to action being taken against both the driver and the registered owner of the vehicle.
Rebated oil can also cause serious damage to engines as some fuels are not designed to work in motor vehicles.
Constable Mike Radcliffe, the Isle of Man Constabulary's crime reduction officer, said: "It should also be remembered that these are not victimless crimes.
"Finances are tight for everyone and as a result this type of crime could affect any one of us.
"Our records show that criminals have targeted both domestic and commercial vehicles and properties during fuel and oil thefts.
"People being willing to buy fuel with 'no questions asked' creates a ready market for this type of crime."
For more information about the use of rebated oil please contact Isle of Man Customs and Excise on 01624 648110.
If you have any information about fuel or heating oil thefts please contact the Isle of Man Constabulary on 631212. You can also pass on information anonymously by ringing Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
