USED cooking oil has been stolen from a fast food outlet, prompting to a warning to other businesses to keep their stock secure.

Thieves struck at Chicken Express, in Southchurch Road, Southend, at around 6.45am on Saturday, June 18, when a man was seen decanting the oil from a drum behind the store.

Police are unsure of the exact quantity the theif made off with, but believe a vehicle would have been needed to remove it.

The suspect is white, aged 25-35, about 5ft 11ins tall, of medium build, with short scruffy blonde hair. He wore a white hooded top and light coloured trousers.

Investigating officer PC Max Davis added: “I would advise the owners of any other food outlet which keeps a stock of cooking oil to be aware of this theft and to take steps to make sure their goods are stored securely.”

Anyone with information should call PC Davis at Southend police station on 0300 3334444.