Two arrested over spate of used cooking oil thefts

Two people have been arrested in connection with a spate of used cooking oil thefts in York.

North Yorkshire Police said the suspects were detained by officers from Humberside Police after they stopped a van linked to a previous theft in the York Market area.

The force said a quantity of stolen oil was found in the vehicle.

A police spokesperson said used cooking oil, which is stored by restaurants and takeaways for collection by licensed waste‑oil disposal companies, has commercial value leading to a rise in thefts.

Both suspects have been released on police bail while the investigation continues.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: "We are currently unable to release further details about the vehicle or suspects while the investigation is ongoing.

"However, we strongly encourage businesses to report any thefts. These incidents matter to the whole community, and even a single unreported theft can lead to further issues for other businesses."

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