Residents had to be evacuated from their homes last Friday after a car filled with fuel was discovered nearby which could have left them “badly injured” if it blew up.

Police were called by members of the public at 8.13pm to a car parked in Charlton Crescent, Barking, that was leaking fuel on to the road.

After breaking into the vehicle, officers found large containers inside holding around 400 litres of diesel along with metal pipes and wiring of what appeared to be a home-made pumping device.

Police believe that the vehicle may have been used to siphon fuel from other vehicles or fuel storage tanks.

Barking fire crew was called and the London Ambulance were on standby in case the highly flammable car exploded.

Firefighters made the vehicle safe by disconnecting the battery and removing the fuel tanks.

Supt Mike Hamer, of Barking and Dagenham Police, said: “The actions of the public in connection with this incident were spot on. “Had this car ignited members of the public and property could have been badly injured.

“Police would rather attend a false alarm than risk a member of the public being injured.

“If you suspect it, please report it straight away.”