Dad feared for family's life after gas pipe theft | Asian Image

A man has spoken of how he feared his family 'could have been dead' after the gas pipe for his home was stolen twice in the space of three weeks.

Toqeer Awan shared his concerns following the incidents, which happened at his property on Thornton Lane in Bradford.

Northern Gas Networks has warned people that tampering with the gas supply is a "very dangerous thing to do" and has urged people to report any suspicious activity.

"We could have easily been dead by now," Mr Awan said

"What if someone had smoked outside my house, and it blew in that direction.

"I had to pay £350 to replace the pipe, but it is not about the money, it is about the safety of those living inside the property."

The gas pipe hole (Image: Newsquest)

The first incident happened on May 31, and Mr Awan recalled what happened.

"It was a Saturday morning whilst we were sleeping," he said.

"Somebody cut off our gas pipe.

"Me, my missus and three children were sleeping in the house. At about half 8, there was a really strong smell.

"I went downstairs and could not find anything. I opened the door, and there was a strong smell outside as well.

"I thought there was something not right. I looked and there was no gas pipe.

"There was a tick tick sound from inside my house, that was the meter continuing to blow the gas inside my house."

After splashing out hundreds of pounds to replace the pipe, it happened again on June 21.

In relation to that incident, police told the Telegraph & Argus that a 38-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and bailed pending further enquiries.

Rashida Seedat said she was lucky to be alive after her gas pipe was stolen (Image: Newsquest)

It comes after a Bradford woman said she was lucky to be alive after waking up to a house full of gas after a yob stole the pipe last week.

Rashida Seedat, of Great Horton, was in shock following the incident just before 11.30pm on Sunday, June 15.

West Yorkshire Police is investigating the theft which took place outside the property on Rudd Street.

"It was quite shocking to wake up with a house full of gas," she said.

"The night before, I cooked some garlic. I got up in the morning and thought it can't be that.

"I opened the door, and there was a whiff of gas all over the house. It was scary."

She added: "It is devastating. I am lucky to be alive to be honest with you.

"What if an old lady had lived here.

"I was a bit warm this morning (Monday) and did not put the boiler on. If I had put that on, that would have been my life gone."

A spokesperson from Northern Gas Networks said: “Illegally diverting gas supply or tampering with gas pipes or meters is a very dangerous thing to do, putting people and property at risk.

“If you see suspicious activity you should report it anonymously to Stay Energy Safe.

"If you smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide, call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999.”

On the Thornton Lane incidents, a spokesperson for the force said: "We are investigating both crimes.

"For the one on June 21, a 38-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and bailed pending further enquiries.

"Enquiries remain ongoing."