FIVE outboard engines have been stolen across from the east Cork coastline in the last three weeks.

Gardai are now urging boat owners to ensure their property is well secured during the summer months as they expect further such thefts in the coming weeks.

In recent years, several outboard engines have been stolen from across the Cork coast. In some instances, the equipment was sent abroad for sale on the black market.

The equipment is highly valuable, with some of the engines stolen in recent weeks being valued at a couple of thousand euro.

Three engines were stolen from boats in Youghal and two in Lower Aghada.

Typically, thieves targeting outboardengines approach the target vessels by boat and have tools to remove engines, causing sometimes extensive damage to the boats when they cut off the locks on engines.

The thefts occur during the hours of darkness.

Gardai in Midleton are investigating the recent thefts.

A spokesman said: "We are interested to hear from anyone who may have information regarding these crimes so if you live or were in the area around these dates and you feel you may be able to help with our enquiries, please contact us, in confidence, at Midleton station."

The station can be contacted on 021 4621550.