Sneak thieves have targeted a restaurant’s cooking oil as the Gulf crisis sends fuel prices soaring.
The video showed two men swiping five large drums containing gallons of the used product.
In the footage, the pair head straight for the containers stored at the back of the premises.
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It is believed they then used it as vehicle fuel.
The liquid is often recycled into biodiesel, a renewable fuel for transport such as buses and tractors.
The theft happened at 1.30am in Guildford, west Surrey, on 11 March, as reported by Need To Know.
The business owner said: “Two individuals entered the area behind our restaurant and removed containers of used cooking oil.
“Unfortunately, this is not the first time we have experienced such incidents, which is extremely disappointing.
“We believe this kind of behaviour has no place in a respectful and responsible community.
“Does the fact that we want to dispose of the oil make it acceptable for someone to take it without permission?
“Or should we be concerned that this kind of behaviour is becoming normal?
“If anyone recognises these individuals or has any information that could assist us, please contact us privately.”
The price of fuel has risen since the US-Israeli war with Iran began.
It is connected to Brent crude oil, which rose sharply amid the escalating conflict.
About 70% of biodiesel produced in the UK is made from used cooking oil.
Prices paid to caterers for their oil can depend on how much is available for collection and its quality but according to the industry, a restaurant could get about 30p a litre.
On average, thefts of used cooking oil cost the UK Treasury £25m-a-year in lost duty.
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