Strathclyde Police has broadened its association with the British Oil Security Syndicate (BOSS) and independent retailers to introduce Forecourt Watch in East Kilbride and Strathaven in a bid to tackle drive-offs.

The East Kilbride and Strathaven scheme, being rolled out at 11 key sites in the district, is the latest addition to some 70 schemes already operating throughout the UK.

Neil Kerr, chief inspector of East Kilbride Police Office, said: “Strathclyde Police, in partnership with the garage operators and East Kilbride & District Crime Prevention Panel, will take action against those persons identified as carrying out these types of theft in a robust manner and this initiative should send out a clear message that thefts from petrol stations will not be tolerated. Strathclyde Police will continue to support any initiative which aims to tackle such issues within our communities.”

Forecourt Watch documents for the recording and notifying of drive-off incidents will be provided to staff at all forecourts taking part in the scheme. High visibility stickers and posters on the forecourt itself will raise awareness among customers and potential thieves that Forecourt Watch is in operation and that making off without payment is a criminal offence.

Service stations registered with the scheme will also benefit from sharing information with police and each other on suspects, vehicles and known offenders to maximise disruption and detection of offences.