Police in Down are reminding boat owners to ensure outboard motors and valuables are removed from boats and secured at all times.
The warning follows a spate of thefts of outboard motors from sailing clubs in the area recently.
Sergeant Nigel Donnelly, from the Neighbourhood Policing Team, explained: “We have had four reports of thefts of outboard engines in recent weeks. We are investigating these thefts but I would also urge all boat owners to think about security to help ensure they don’t become a victim of this type of crime.
“Ensure that your outboard engine and other valuable items are removed from your boat or secured as much as possible, making it more difficult for thieves to make off with your property. An audible alarm can act as a deterrent to thieves and can alert anyone close by to any attempt to take your property. Installing anti-theft tagging and tracking systems to items of value, particularly outboard engines, is another method of deterring thieves and should be given serious consideration.
“I would also ask boat owners to consider marking their equipment twice – somewhere where it is clearly visible and difficult to remove and somewhere out of sight so there is something to check if the visible mark is removed. These details should then be recorded so that if the items are stolen, the chances of us being able to return them to you should they be recovered at some stage increase.
“I would also urge everyone to be vigilant and be aware of unusual activity or vehicles around jetties, harbours and marinas.
“Anyone with information on the theft or outboards, or indeed anyone who notices suspicious activity in and around boats is asked to contact local police on the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, information about crime can be passed to the Crimestoppers charity anonymously by telephoning Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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