Pipeline closed in UK oil theft probe

One of the UK’s main underground oil pipes has been shut down as police investigate whether tens of thousands of litres of fuel have been extracted from it.

Two men have been arrested after a large quantity of diesel was discovered in a warehouse in West Wellow, on the Hampshire/Wiltshire border, on Thursday.

The suspects, aged 32 and 34, were arrested in Salisbury, Wiltshire, and are being questioned by detectives from Hampshire police.

It is understood that detectives are investigating whether the 30,000 litres of fuel was extracted from a pipeline running from the Esso refinery at Fawley.

The Midline pipeline was built in the 1980s and runs underground carrying fuel through Wiltshire to the Midlands, including Birmingham International Airport.

Officials from the Environment Agency and health and safety experts have attended the crime scene to ensure the safety of the area.

An Esso spokesman said: “Esso is assisting Hampshire Police with their inquiries following the discovery of a store of fuel in the Romsey area.

“Early indications suggest that the fuel may have come from a nearby Esso pipeline. Investigations continue into whether this is the case.

“Esso is committed to the very highest standards of safety. The pipeline has therefore been closed down and our specialists are working to check it and, if necessary, effect any repair.

“We will not resume operations of the pipeline until this work is complete.”

A Hampshire police spokesman said: “We can confirm two men, aged 32 and 34 from the Salisbury area, remain in police custody for questioning this evening.

“Both men were arrested in Salisbury last night on suspicion of conspiracy to steal fuel.

“Police launched an investigation after a large quantity of diesel was found in an industrial storage unit at West Wellow.

“Lines of inquiry include establishing the exact amount of fuel stolen and examining the suspected sophisticated method used in this alleged theft.

“The discovery was made by the unit’s owner at around 7.30pm on Thursday. It is believed to have been illegally obtained.

“The exact quantity and circumstances surrounding the accumulation of fuel are central to the investigation, and detectives are focusing on identifying those responsible.

“The fuel is stored safely and securely and is being retrieved by engineers from the nearby Esso refinery.

“The investigation, led by Lyndhurst CID, is still in its early stages and this is all the information we are able to release at this time.”

The suspects are being questioned at a Hampshire police station and can be held until 6.30am tomorrow.