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Watch out, there's a fuel thief about
Homes across Bedford targetted
Car owners are footing the bill for hundreds of pounds because of night time drillers who damage their vehicles to steal fuel.
The drillers have struck in seven areas in the past month and police say that no specific type or age of car is being pinpointed.
In Bamford Road, Kempston residents claimed that four cars had been attacked in a single night by the sneaky fuel thief or thieves.
One resident, who asked not to be named, said: "They are actually damaging the cars now.
"Nobody heard a thing and it was someone with a drill and they were quite professional about it.
"It is going to cost me 470 to repair the damage."
The drillers strike at night between 5pm and 9am.
In one case, on March 3, at Eastnor Gardens in Brickhill, firefighters were called to clear spilt petrol from the road.
A Fire Service spokeswoman said: "This sort of accelerant could be dangerous – not only for the fuel thief but for the people in the vicinity."
Police say that there appears to be no pattern as to which streets are targeted in the fuel theft blitz and are urging car owners to be on their guard.
A spokesman said: "We would advise people to use garages if they have access to one, or to park in such a way that the fuel tank is obstructed, for example against a wall or fence. For those with on-street parking, try to park in well-lit areas.
"Our advice to residents is not to challenge the offenders if they witness a theft taking place but to call 999 immediately."
Have you been hit by the thieves? Let us know by emailing editorial@timesandcitizen.co.uk
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Friday 25 May 2012
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