Hampshire Fire Crews Hunt Thieves in Abandoned Portsmouth Fuel Bunker
Hampshire Fire’s Urban Search and Rescue team were scrambled today to investigate a decommissioned fuel bunker in Portsmouth. The call-out followed the theft of piping and metal gates from the underground fuel stores.
Massive WWII Pipeline Scoured by Specialists
The crew spent hours inspecting the sprawling 5.5-mile pipeline, dating back to the early 1940s. This tunnel linked the Oil Fuel Reservoir on Portsdown Hill with the Admiralty Oil Fuel Depot at Forton. A specially trained search dog joined the hunt for any culprits or damage.
Thieves Target Historic Site for Scrap Metal
Officials are alarmed after vandals broke into the restricted area, stealing large amounts of metal piping and gates. The search-and-rescue team, decked out in bright orange overalls and equipped with advanced MSA SavOx Self-Rescuer kits, combed the tunnels thoroughly.
No Trespassers Found as Enquiries Continue
The five-strong crew worked tirelessly to ensure no one was trapped or hiding underground before resealing the site. Hampshire’s specialist teams bring expert skills and equipment to tackle complex incidents like this. So far, no intruders have been found, but investigations into the theft remain ongoing.
