Authorities in Dubai have referred two Syrian nationals to the Public Prosecution after they were linked to a series of diesel thefts from heavy vehicles parked in the Jebel Ali area, according to a report by Khaleej Times.
Both suspects, identified as Arab residents with prior criminal records, were caught following coordinated surveillance operations between Jebel Ali investigation teams and transport-related units. Police had been monitoring areas commonly used by truck drivers for parking after multiple complaints were logged under the same police station jurisdiction.
Criminal investigation teams found that the gang had developed a systematic approach to the thefts. Their vehicles — four-wheel-drives — were fitted in advance with pumps, hoses, and storage tanks built into the rear compartment. Suspects would pull alongside stationary trucks, force open the fuel cap, and drain diesel directly into their onboard tanks before driving off.
The stolen fuel is believed to have been resold, with financial gain identified as the primary motive behind the operation.
Dubai Police have since urged transport firms and truck drivers to secure fuel tanks when leaving vehicles unattended, and to use only designated, monitored parking areas — noting that isolated locations are a frequent target for this type of crime.
The Public Prosecution is still investigating the full scope of the gang’s activities, including the possible involvement of additional suspects and the total volume of fuel taken.
