Esso pipeline diesel thefts: two men released without charge. Manton anti-pollution work continues

Two men arrested over the theft in April of 30,000 litres of diesel fuel from an Esso pipeline in Hampshire have been released without charge.  Meanwhile anti-pollution work continues at Manton Down where an attempted theft led to a huge fuel leak from the pipeline. [For comment from ARK – see below.]

BBC News reports that the two men from Salisbury, aged 32 and 34, were held on suspicion of conspiracy to steal fuel but will face no further action.

Shortly before the theft of fuel in Hampshire, the same pipeline – taking fuel from Esso’s Fawley refinery to Birmingham – was breached at Manton and 150,000 litres of fuel leaked from the pipeline.  This leak came to public attention in May.

Esso said in a statement: “Esso continues to support the police in their investigations into these recent fuel thefts.”  The investigation by Hampshire police also involves West Mercia, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire forces.

Since Esso’s ‘Midline’ pipeline was breached during the theft attempt at Manton Down and fuel leaked into the ground, work has been continuing near Fyfield to monitor the effects of the leak.

Esso have issued the following statement:
 
“The pipeline was fully repaired and Esso is working with environmental specialists to assess the impact of the spill and take any appropriate further action.”
 
“A network of 18 boreholes has been drilled to establish groundwater flow in the area, to monitor the spread of the leaked fuel and enable its recovery. It is clear from our findings to date that the local geological structure is complex and further boreholes will therefore be needed.”
 
“There is no indication of any impact on human health as a result of the leak, and Esso remains vigilant for any potential causes for concern.”
 
“Esso is working with local stakeholders, including Thames Water, the Environment Agency, Wiltshire County Council and other key local agencies including Action for the River Kennett (ARK) to prepare contingency plans in case the leak reaches local waterways.”
 
“If anyone living or working nearby has any concerns regarding water quality, they should contact 01380 826330.”

 ARK’s Director, Charlotte Hitchmough, told Marlborough News Online that ARK is in regular contact with Esso: “They are conducting a complex operation on the downs.  We are very much hoping that they are able to contain and recover the fuel.”