Outboard engines stolen

At least four outboard engines have been reported stolen from Whippingham near East Cowes and police are issuing a warning to boat owners to secure their boats - especially those with outboard engines.

Boats moored at a pontoon near the Folly Inn were targeted by thieves during the early hours of Thursday, September 23, 2010.

Boats moored at a pontoon near the Folly Inn were targeted by thieves during the early hours of Thursday, September 23, 2010.

These thefts in Whippingham may be linked to a similar report from Shalfleet on July 2 this year when a number of men were suspected of trying to steal an outboard motor from a boat. On this occasion, three men, aged in their 20s from the island, were arrested, but later released with no further action because of insufficient evidence.

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said:  "We would like to thank boat owners who have contacted the police so far. Your information is being used to pursue several lines of enquiry. Specialist scenes of crime officers are looking for forensic evidence, and we are continuing to appeal for more information about people acting suspiciously near pontoons and boat yards on the Island recently."

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