2,313 European cargo and fuel theft incidents in 2022

Germany recorded by far the greatest numbers, followed by the UK and France. (Image: Risk Intelligence)

TOTAL: 2,313 European cargo and fuel theft incidents in 2022

Incidents include thefts of fuel and cargo from vehicles, facilities, trailers, containers and complete thefts of trucks. This figure also includes theft attempts (422), which although unsuccessful still highlight the capability and intent of criminal cargo theft gangs. Theft attempts often result in damage to trucks, trailers or facilities, so even if goods are not stolen or are subsequently recovered these incidents still involve loss through damages for the operator.

Germany recorded by far the greatest numbers, followed by the UK and then France.

785 incidents were fuel thefts, and this threat is likely to remain until the cost of fuel goes down. However, as with other criminal enterprise, fuel theft has become a lucrative business and trucks are an easy target, so this threat is likely to continue even if prices return to normal. Most of the incidents took place in NW Europe and in the midlands in the UK along main transportation routes.

Countries with the most incidents:

• Germany 1,053

• UK 375

• France 217

• Spain 160

• Italy 134

The big numbers:

• 944 thefts from vehicles

• 386 thefts from facilities

• 422 failed thefts

• 785 thefts targeting fuel

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