Thieves are drilling through petrol tanks and stealing fuel in a new crimewave hitting motorists in Oxford.

Police believe thieves may be selling the petrol on a lucrative black market. As the price for unleaded petrol in Oxford has hit an average of £1.05 a litre, there have been 17 reports of fuel stolen from cars parked in the city since December.

Most of the thefts happened in the Headington area at night, but police believe more have gone unreported.

Dc Claire Routledge, of Oxford police auto crime, described the gang behind the thefts as "organised criminals".

She said: "We can't directly link it with the fuel rise but obviously there is supply and demand and there has been a marked increase in the price of fuel.

"It seems as long as someone is able to get rid of it they will keep stealing it.

"Car owners should be on the look out and tell us of any suspicious activity. Also, if there is a trade in black market petrol going on then we would like to know about it."

Between January and December last year there were only 10 reports of fuel theft in Oxford.

The thieves can drill through the fuel tanks and drain the petrol in just a few minutes.

Nine of the reported thefts were from Renault cars and most of the vehicles had plastic petrol tanks.

There has been one fuel theft each in Watlington Road, Botley Road and Summertown since December 1.

Headington and Barton residents have fallen victim four times each and in Marston six times.

Dc Routledge added: "It's a terrible crime for the victim and can put them back by between £350 and £500."

Police are now warning motorists to park on driveways in a lit area with the petrol tank facing away from the street.

Any motorists who think their tank has been tampered with are advised not to start their engine but inform police.

Ray Holloway, of the Petrol Retailers Association, said: "I think it is linked with the price of fuel. But these people really are putting their health at risk by the lengths they are prepared to go."

Crossroads Renault dealership in Kidlington has seen a rise in requests for replacement tanks since before Christmas. Parts manager Adrian Matthews said: "I don't know why they're targeting Renault cars."

Anyone with information should call the auto crime unit on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.