More than 10 outboard dinghy motors have been stolen from marinas throughout the territory in the last three weeks, according to the Police Information Office.

Initially, the boats themselves were taken, but most were later found in nearby mangroves without their engines, police said.

Inspector Marlon Charles, who heads the marine police, noted that sea patrols have increased in the wake of the recent thefts. Multiple arrests have been made, but no charges have been laid, according to police.

“We are on night patrols around marinas and docks and doing what we can to apprehend would-be suspects,” Mr. Charles said. “But it is important the boat owners do their part to secure these items in advance.”

Police urge anyone who has an engine stolen to report it to the Police Marine Base at Road Reef with identification and the necessary documents of ownership.

Generators left on construction sites overnight have also become a “popular” item to steal, with five such thefts this year, according to police.

Anyone with information that could help identify the perpetrators is urged to call the police Intelligence Unit at 468-9339 or the anonymous Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-8477.

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