The new hi-tech solution to petrol pump drive-offs

Hi-tech cameras will be the new weapon for police trying to catch petrol thieves.

Number plates will be scanned at service stations, shopping centres and even hospitals to curb fuel drive-offs and boom-gate runners.

The trial will be led by VicRoads.

The Herald Sun reports the cameras will be installed at a number of locations where vehicles are dodging payment for petrol and parking.

Registration details will be published on a database, which only approved users can access.

Petrol thefts costs retailers $20 million a year.

The trial will start in the coming weeks.