Thousands of litres of fuel stolen from Esso pipeline

Esso has reopened a pipeline running from its refinery at Fawley in Hampshire.

It was closed when police launched an investigation into whether thousands of litres of fuel was extracted from it.

Two men from Salisbury, who were arrested, have been released on bail.

Two men, aged 32 and 34, who were arrested in Salisbury on suspicion of conspiracy to steal fuel, have been released on bail.

An investigation was launched when a large quantity of diesel, thought to be illegally obtained, was found in an industrial storage unit at West Wellow.

It led to Esso closing one of its fuel pipelines from the Fawley Refinery.

Esso has closed a pipeline from the Fawley Refinery in Hampshire after reports that thousands of litres of fuel was stolen. It's believed that as much as 30,000 litres was taken after a store of fuel was found near Romsey. Early indications suggest the fuel may have come from a nearby Esso pipeline.

A spokesman said: 'Esso is committed to the very highest standards of safety. The pipeline has therefore been closed down and our specialists are working to check it and, if necessary, effect any repair. We will not resume operations of the pipeline until this work is complete.'

The spokesman added that Esso are helping Hampshire Police with their investigation.