Honolulu police are warning the public about a recent rash of gasoline theft from vehicles.

Police said there were nine reported cases since May, most occurring at night, from Halawa Valley to East Oahu.

The thieves commonly target parked vehicles with plastic tanks, mostly sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks.

A CrimeStoppers bulletin issued today says the plastic tanks are easier to drill into and have “less chance of a catastrophic spark.”

However, siphoning is still the most common way of stealing gas.

To avoid becoming a victim of gasoline theft, police recommend the following: 

Park in a garage or well-lit area, not on the street.

Install a motion-detecting light on your garage or house.

Call police if you see suspicious activity.

Anyone with information about these thefts is asked to call CrimeStoppers at 955-8300 or *CRIME on a cellphone.