Fuel thefts are increasing in Portugal as prices continue to rise in the wake of the disruption of global energy supplies caused by attacks on Iran by the US and Israel.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by Portugal’s GNR military police, who warn that rising costs are leading more people to “adopt opportunistic or illegal behaviour, such as fuel thefts”.
Fuel is typically stolen directly from tanks or by drilling into them, the police force says, causing not only financial losses but also damage to vehicles and equipment. Authorities warn this is affecting people’s sense of security.
Contrary to common belief, most fuel thefts are not happening at night.
Data for 2025 shows the highest number of incidents occurred in the afternoon (1pm–6pm), with 676 cases. This was followed by the morning (7am–12pm) with 468 cases, and the evening (7pm–12am) with 406.
The early hours of the morning (12am–6am) recorded the fewest incidents, with 150 cases.
However, this recent escalation of fuel thefts follows a slight decrease between 2024 and 2025, from 1,744 to 1,700 – 44 fewer incidents (-2.52%).
Lisbon recorded one of the biggest drops between 2024 and 2025, down 56 cases (-26.32%), followed by Aveiro, Faro and Setúbal.
In contrast, several districts saw increases. Notable rises were recorded in Viana do Castelo (+21 cases), Leiria (+22), Santarém (+15) and Castelo Branco (+10). Percentage increases were particularly sharp in Bragança (+50%) and Guarda (+80%), highlighting the need for targeted responses.
With cases of fuel theft now rising, GNR police are urging the public and businesses to take extra precautions.
For owners of agricultural and industrial machinery, police advise avoiding leaving equipment in isolated or poorly lit areas and using locking fuel caps or protective systems.
Fuel stations are encouraged to strengthen video surveillance, ensuring cameras capture both licence plates and drivers’ faces.
Transport operators and fleet managers are advised to use secure, well-lit parking areas and consider installing sensors that alert when fuel tanks are tampered with.
Anyone who notices suspicious activity near vehicles or fuel storage areas should contact the authorities immediately.
Police stress that prevention remains key in tackling this type of crime and are calling on the public to stay alert and report concerns quickly.
