South Australian duo caught in ‘systematic’ fuel thefts

A man and woman have been accused of using a modified fuel tank to steal thousands of dollars’ worth of fuel.

A 28-year-old woman and 33-year-old man appeared in the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court on Monday over the alleged fuel theft.

Police allege since August last year, the pair stole “large quantities” of petrol and diesel from a number of locations across Adelaide.

The pair allegedly stole the fuel using a specifically modified Toyota Hiace van with a 1000L fuel tank, fitted with a bowser, hose and pump to distribute the stolen fuel.

Police allege thousands of dollars’ worth of fuel was pumped into jerry cans and tanks inside the van, which was paid for using an app and fraudulently obtained credit card details.

From January this year, the pair stopped using the app for payments and had instead allegedly started driving off without paying for it.

On Saturday, Western District Police attended a home in Cheltenham where the two were arrested.

Police also seized a van and two gel blasters.

The man and woman have been charged with multiple counts of making off without payment, possess a firearm without a licence and breach of bail.

They appeared in the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court on Monday where the man was remanded in custody and to appear again on May 10.

The woman was bailed to appear in court on April 3.

Investigations continue.