POLICE have warned retailers to be vigilant after fuel was stolen from two petrol stations in Co Down.
A man entered the forecourt of a business in the Killinchy Road area of Comber on Tuesday and filled a drum with diesel before making off without paying at around 4pm.
At around 5pm, a man entered the forecourt of a station on the Rathgael Road in Bangor and filled two drums with diesel and made of on foot without paying.
Police said "enquiries are ongoing in order to establish if both incidents are linked".
A spokeswoman said: "We are encouraging forecourt owners to take measures to help prevent the number of thefts from occurring. This can include displaying clear signs around the pumps asking motorists to ensure they have the necessary funds to pay for their fuel and installing CCTV.
"Staff should also be vigilant to activity on the forecourt and report anything suspicious to the police immediately. Don’t forget to note down details such as registration numbers and a description of the driver.
"Police continue to remind the public that motorists who fail to pay for fuel at forecourts could be liable for prosecution and anyone who witnesses any type of fuel theft is urged to contact police."
