The Petrol Retailers’ Association has expressed its concern over the rise in illicit fuel detections and called on the government to take action.

This week HM Revenue & Customs announced a rapid increase of illicit fuel detections. The number of detections in Great Britain has increased by a staggering 132% over the last 4 years.

PRA Chairman Brian Madderson said: “This is just another manifestation of the crime wave engulfing the retail road fuels market.

“A stagnant economy gives rise to unemployment, especially for younger people, and lowers real wages. The inevitable result is that criminal activity becomes an alternative despite the risks.

“HMRC have successfully targeted illicit fuel in Northern Ireland with detections reducing by 14.7% over the last four years.

“However illicit fuel detections in Great Britain have increased by 132% over the last four years. Therefore it is now time for them to focus their efforts on Great Britain and the PRA will assist in any way possible.

“Independent services station continue to close at the rate of 175/200 each year, mostly in challenged rural areas, with loss of jobs and local facilities. Illicit fuel sales will undermine the financial model of these important sites.”