Separate investigations over theft of boat and boat engines from marinas at Rooskey and Strokestown

Gardaí in Roscommon are investigating a number of recent thefts of outboard engines and a boat from separate marinas in the Rooskey/Strokestown areas of Co Roscommon.

Between the 12th & 14th July 2023, a micro plus 501 sportsman, 17 foot long boat, orange above the water line / white  below water line, together with a 20hpTohatsu 4 stoke long shaft (black) engine were taken from Carrandoe Marina, Rooskey.

In a separate incident, which occurred at a private marina at Cuilmore, Strokestown, Co Roscommon between 6th & 13th July 2023, a 50hp Honda two stroke short shaft outboard engine was taken. The engine plate is stamped Bf50 2008.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Roscommon Garda Station (090) 663 8300 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

Local Crime Prevention Officer, Sergeant Damien Bartley wishes to raise awareness of marine crime and the steps boat owners can take to avoid becoming victims. When thinking of marine security, think STORM:

·         Security – physical security measures

·         Track – property marking and tracking systems

·         Observe – keep an eye on your marina/sailing club

·         Report suspicious activity

·         Monitor at all times – CCTV and alarms

Security (physical security measures)
Ensure cockpit lockers are properly locked and keep unused ropes, fenders and other items out of sight. Check that all hatches are locked with an approved padlock. Consider having a small safe or security cabinet onboard to store small valuable items. If the boat is stored on a trailer, secure it with a wheel clamp, hitch lock and ground anchor system.

Track (property marking & tracking systems)
Mark outboard and electronic equipment using a recognised asset marking or etching kit. It is a highly effective, visible deterrent to thieves and an established method of reducing theft. Record serial numbers on items such as radios, navigation equipment or outboard motors, chassis and model numbers for trailers, and take note of any custom marks on the trailer or boat. Keep a copy of the list at home and on your boat. Also, take colour photographs from several angles, as well as a video.

Consider using a tracking system on vessels and especially outboard engines, to increase the chances of recovery. They activate once the boat or outboard is stolen and alert the tracking company that uses GPS systems and other communication technologies to locate the stolen property in Ireland and overseas.

Observe (keep an eye on your marina/sailing club)
Most marinas have CCTV and restrict access to the site. However, look out for each other and get to know other boat owners in your marina. Work together to keep the marina secure by always keeping the pontoon gate closed and never revealing the access code to the marina/pontoon or giving your access card/key to others.

Report suspicious activity
Report any strangers at the marina to the harbour or yardmaster. Be vigilant at all times in and around the water and report anything suspicious to An Garda Síochána.

Monitor at all times (CCTV and alarms)
It’s advisable to fit an alarm and use a visible sticker to say that one is installed. If you don’t have mains power, a battery-operated GSM mobile alert system and camera can warn of anything suspicious or if the main hatch has been opened. If you’ve access to Wi-Fi, there are systems that can alert to any activation, allowing you to view your boat or yacht in real time.

Marine property is specialist, and An Garda Síochána encourage owners to be diligent in marking their property and recording serial numbers and photographic records of unique marks or modifications at the point of taking ownership. #

If they are then unlucky enough to be a victim of crime, the unique nature of marine items means there is an increased chance the property will be identified as stolen at a later date.