The RVIPF is reporting that boat burglaries/theft are on the rise. Photo: VINO

The victims had all retired to bed with the doors and hatches to their boats closed but unlocked and discovered the next morning that their electronic items and money were missing. In at least two of the cases, the culprits were seen onboard or leaving the boat but could only be described as wearing black clothing. At least one of the culprits was described as bulky built weighing about 250 pounds.

At Nanny Cay Marina, the culprit attempted to enter the boat cabin but the door was locked. In plain view of the occupant, the culprit tried to force the lock open but was unsuccessful. He then ran.

During the same week, several vehicles were entered all with heavy losses to victims including kindles, laptops, iPods and iPads and in one case, $500 in cash stolen while it was parked at a residence overnight. Three of the vehicles were left unsecured; two were broken into and one was locked but carried a soft top held in place with velcro.

Police are following several leads into these incidents.

With a reduction in residential and business burglaries within the past weeks, Police believe the same burglars are now targeting the marinas and are therefore advising the proprietors of these establishments to provide the needed advice to clients on securing their vessels and on personal property protection and to provide appropriate security in and around marinas.

Persons are reminded to plan in advance to properly secure valuables and not to leave these items in vehicles while parked at home or in public parking spaces.

Home and business owners are asked, as well, to inspect their premises and secure windows and doors, particularly those out of public view and more susceptible to break-ins. The installation of alarm systems is also encouraged.

Police believe large qualities of electronic items are being stored and/or transported off island and therefore are asking for any information that can assist in locating the property or identifying the perpetrators involved. Persons can call the confidential Crimestoppers hotline number at 800-TIPS (8477) or any officer within the RVIPF.