Fuel Thefts CCTV
14 June 2012, 15:28 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50
Officers investigating the theft of fuel from a school in Oakthorpe are appealing for public help to trace the perpetrators.
Police are investigating three incidents of fuel being stolen from a tanker at Oakthorpe Primary School in School Street.
The most recent incident was just before midnight on Sunday May 20 when more than 1000 litres of fuel was stolen. Incidents also took place on Friday February 3 and Thursday November 17, 2011 when more than 1000 litres of fuel was stolen.
Due to the similarities between the incidents they are being linked. Police Community Support Officer Patrick McDonald, an officer from Coalville, said: "We have been carrying extensive enquiries since the incidents have been reported to us and have been liaising with the school.
"We have viewed CCTV footage from the area and believe three people were involved in the incident and may have been using a dark long wheel base, Mitsubishi style vehicle, similar to a 4x4. The vehicle has distinctive silver or chrome side rail steps, bull bars and wheel cover on the back door."
The suspects have been described as being white, 15-25 years-old and of slim to medium build. "If you saw any suspicious activity around the school on these dates or you know anything about the incident or the stole fuel we would urge you to contact us. Any calls received will be treated in confidence."
Mrs Moulds, Head teacher at Oakthorpe Primary School, recalled the school?s reaction to the news, she said: "The children of Oakthorpe were deeply saddened that anyone could even think of taking from their school. Such enormous quantities taken will have a significant impact on our school budget which we cannot keep supporting.
"On hearing and seeing CCTV footage, the children suggested fundraising. One boy offered half the contents of his piggy bank and two girls even baked cakes and sold them to their neighbours raising £6.10. This is what true community means and we are appealing to the public to report any dubious sales of oil locally, or anything they see so we can bring the perpetrators to justice. Our children do much for the community and we need the community to support them now."
Anyone with any information is asked to contact PCSO 6683 Patrick McDonald on 101*, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer?s identification number 6683. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is free** and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.
