Man Charged with $1.1 Million Diesel Theft from Unmanned Depots

A 48-year-old man has been charged with stealing diesel fuel valued at approximately $1.1 million from unmanned depots in south-east Queensland. Police allege the thefts occurred over a 12-month period between December 2024 and December 2025, using stolen fuel cards.

Incident and Investigation

Locations and Method

The alleged thefts took place at unmanned depots in the suburbs of Parkinson, Bundamba, and Karawatha.

Police allege the man used stolen fuel cards to obtain the diesel fuel.

Property Search

A search of a property in Greenbank in March 2025 resulted in the recovery of property alleged to have been stolen, as well as a homemade taser.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Charges Filed

The man has been charged with seven offences, including:

• Two counts of fraud
• Two counts of receiving tainted property

Court Appearances

• He first appeared in court on March 25, 2025, and was remanded in custody.
• His next court appearance is scheduled for May 15, 2025, at the Richlands Magistrates Court.

Official Statements

Queensland Police issued a statement on Friday, April 4, 2025. Acting Detective Inspector Justin Anderson of the South Brisbane District Centenary Crime Group stated:

"Whether it's one tank of fuel or a large-scale diesel fraud, stealing is an offence which can land you before the court."

Context on Fuel Prices

According to the Australian Institute of Petroleum, the average retail price of diesel reached 312.7 cents per litre for the week ending April 5, 2025.

Police have noted that the alleged thefts occurred before a reported increase in fuel prices that began in late February 2025. Some reports have linked this price surge to military action involving the US, Israel, and Iran, and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.