Man Charged Over Alleged $1.1 Million Diesel Fuel Theft

A 48-year-old man has been charged in connection with the alleged theft of diesel fuel valued at approximately $1.1 million from unmanned depots in south-east Queensland. The charges follow a police investigation that included a property search and the recovery of items described as stolen property. The man has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear in court again in May.

Allegations and Charges

Queensland Police allege the thefts occurred over a 12-month period between December 2024 and December 2025. The alleged incidents took place at depots in the suburbs of Parkinson, Bundamba, and Karawatha.

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

Following the investigation, the man has been charged with seven offences. The charges include two counts of fraud and two counts of receiving tainted property.

Police Investigation and Court Proceedings

As part of the investigation, police conducted a search of a property in Greenbank in March. During this search, officers recovered items they described as stolen property and a homemade taser.

The accused man first appeared in court on March 25. He was remanded in custody at that appearance. His next court date is scheduled for May 15 at the Richlands Magistrates Court.

Official Statements

Queensland Police issued a statement regarding fuel theft. 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."

The police statement warned that theft of any amount of fuel would not be tolerated.

Fuel Price Context

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

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