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A targeted operation has been launched to crack down on petrol thefts.

Petrol ‘bilkings’, which cost service stations thousands of pounds each year, are to be tackled in a 25-day operation by police in north Kent.

Statistics show Dartford and Gravesham suffered the highest rate of bilking offences in the county between January 2005 and April 2008.

Those responsible for the offences are often linked to other vehicle-related crime, such as number plate theft, according to police.

~Listen: Chief Insp Phillip Painter explains how bilking - and number plate thefts - are big issues in north Kent>>>

Now a targeted operation has been launched today (Tuesday 3 March) to disrupt, deter and identify those involved.

Chief Inspector Philip Painter, who is in charge of neighbourhood policing in North Kent, said: “North Kent is targeted for this type of crime only because of its easy access to the major road network.

“Our statistics show that between 1 January and 31 December 2008, there were 741 reported bilking offences, which at their peak were happening at a rate of 80 offences a month.

“We are working hard in partnership with the service stations to reduce bilkings and throughout the operation will be increasing patrols to deter offenders and also gather information about those responsible."

The operation will run until Friday March 27.