A GANG of thieves has got away with huge quantities of heating and diesel oil after attacking private tanks in the Bodmin and Wadebridge areas.

During the past two weeks the gang has stolen more than 5,000 litres from private supplies. Police say the thefts have escalated and are appealing for information from the public in their attempts to track down those responsible. Bodmin, St Mabyn, Wadebridge, Port Isaac and St Issey are among the locations where the thieves have struck in the past fortnight.

One large tank in the Bodmin area had 1,250 litres drained. Police believe a Transit van or similar vehicle is being used for the oil raids. Inspector Ian Marshall warned people to be vigilant. "This is an awful lot of fuel, it's the equivalent of full tanks of 100 average sized cars. The gang must be using a van to take the oil away, and if people see any suspicious vehicle parked near their property, I would ask them to take the registration number and contact us, and we will follow it up.'' Inspector Marshall said if individuals are offered cheap oil, chances are it would have been stolen and they should contact the police.

As well as business premises, isolated private dwellings are being targeted, which has led police to believe the thieves are aware where the tanks are located prior to them siphoning the fuel away. Sgt Robin Moorcroft,added: "It's possible thieves are knocking on doors, saying they are looking for an address. If anyone is suspicious, they should phone the police.''

People with information that could lead to the gang being caught should phone 0845 777 444, quote log number 617/13/03/10.