The director of a rural community charity in Northern Ireland has raised concerns about the growing threat of heating oil theft, after her organization became a victim. Kate Clifford, who leads the Rural Community Network (RCN), discovered that more than 1,000 litres of heating oil had been stolen from the charity’s office in Cookstown in 2024. She believes the theft was planned, noting that the oil tank was not easily accessible and that the thieves must have known it had recently been filled. The loss forced the charity to implement extra security measures to protect its remaining supplies. Heating oil is a major energy source for homes in Northern Ireland, especially in rural areas. New data shows that there have been 600 reports of oil and fuel thefts in the region since 2021. These incidents often rise during energy crises, which are typically linked to geopolitical events that cause oil prices to surge. For example, police recorded a peak in oil thefts around the time of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, when heating oil prices reached record highs. In the first half of 2026, there were 45 reported oil thefts in Northern Ireland, compared to 59 in the entire previous year. This increase is attributed to the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran, which has driven up oil prices. In March 2022, following the Ukraine invasion, the price of 500 litres of heating oil reached £663, and 900 litres hit £1,182. In recent weeks, prices have risen sharply again, with 500 litres now averaging £491.00, up nearly 30% in just three weeks. Experts recommend several steps to prevent oil theft, including securing fuel tanks with locks or alarms, using reinforced fuel hoses, keeping property gates locked, and installing security lighting. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) recently warned of increased thefts in the Mid-Ulster area after several incidents in Moneymore. Almost two-thirds of homes in Northern Ireland rely on heating oil, with rural areas showing an even higher dependency—nearly 80%. This dependence makes rural communities, especially older residents, low-income families, and farms, particularly vulnerable to such crimes. Clifford urged people to report any suspicious activity, such as unfamiliar vehicles or unusual behavior near fuel tanks. The PSNI also advised residents to disguise or lock their tanks, install alarms, and consider CCTV to deter thieves.