Garda warning after three boat engines are stolen in Kinsale

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following the recovery of three outboard engines that were stolen in Kinsale yesterday.

At approximately 9.30pm, a member of the public spotted two men acting suspiciously at the water’s edge at Scilly, Kinsale. 

The two men fled the scene empty handed, leaving behind a small dinghy with three outboard engines in it. Gardaí from the Bandon District attended and discovered that attempts were also made to remove the engines of two other boats in the harbour.

Gardaí are appealing for anyone who may have noticed anything suspicious around the harbour in Kinsale between 8pm and 10pm, to contact Bandon Garda Station on 023-885 2200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800-666-111 or any Garda Station. Gardaí are also trying to identify the owners of the 3 engines that were recovered.

Speaking at Bandon Garda Station, Superintendent Brendan Fogarty said: "Our boating season seems to be starting earlier each year so I would like to remind everyone of a few tips to keep your boat and its equipment more secure."

"Always use a quality padlock on exterior boat hatches. Use high quality chains and locks to secure the boat whilst docked or whilst on a trailer. It’s vital that all of the property associated with your boat such as outboard engines, trailers and electronics are marked in some way. For example, etch in your Eircode or a series of numbers and letters. Take a photograph of the property, the serial number and its marking."

"Emailing it back to yourself then so you have a record of it. It is a deterrent for criminals to take items that are marked and it’s a lot easier for us to reunite stolen items with the owner also. When your boat is not in use, store it in a locked garage or storage facility. If the boat is kept in the water, use a marina with full time security, good lighting and CCTV."