Four tricks fuel attendants use to cheat motorists at filling stations

Nigerian motorists have been warned about four alleged tactics used by dishonest fuel attendants to shortchange customers amid rising petrol expenses.

According to Tribune Online, the practices involve pump readings, nozzle handling, fuel hoses and transaction manipulation.

The unreset zero trick

Some attendants allegedly begin dispensing petrol without resetting the previous transaction, causing unsuspecting motorists to pay for fuel they never received.

The rapid trigger squeeze

The report claims attendants repeatedly squeeze and release dispensing nozzles to manipulate fuel measurements. However, this claimed mechanism remains technically unverified.

The stretched and folded pipe routine

Attendants allegedly bend or leave dispensing hoses sagging to trap petrol already measured by the pump, potentially shortchanging customers. This mechanism also requires independent verification.

The intentional short-sale distraction

Some attendants reportedly enter smaller amounts than requested, apologise and restart transactions, creating confusion over the total quantity delivered.

Motorists are advised to check pump readings before dispensing, monitor transactions carefully and report suspected irregularities to relevant consumer protection and petroleum regulatory authorities nationwide.