GREECE’S state television was mocked over a segment that showed viewers how to siphon gasoline from cars yesterday, as fuel prices soared.

“It is not something terribly complicated… you do not need a special tube, even a hose for balconies will do,” said the station’s reporter, Costas Stamou, during ERT’s morning news programme Syndeseis on Wednesday.

After demonstrating the method, a car repairman then points out where a fuel tank can alternatively be pierced to steal the contents.

“Are you in your right mind? Giving people tips on stealing gasoline?” commented one user on Twitter.

“After the tutorial on two ways to easily steal gasoline, ERT is now preparing new (tips) on how to open locks and steal wallets,” jibed another.

A video mixed by satirical website Luben has been viewed more than 170,000 times by yesterday. Another 32,500 viewers saw the original segment on Twitter.

Fuel prices have steadily climbed in Greece in recent months, with simple unleaded at more than 2.37 euros (RM11) per litre on average in Athens on Wednesday, and more than 2.50 euros on Rhodes and neighbouring islands.

Greek authorities resisted calls to cut tax on fuel, opting instead for 30-50 euro subsidies to less well-off car and motorcycle owners. – AFP, June 24, 2022.