PORTELET HARBOUR users should check their boats after thefts were reported over the Liberation weekend.

Edward Bourgaize has moored his fishing boat there for nine years and considered the tight-knit harbour completely safe before his outboard motor was stolen.

‘I’ve always had the same engine on my boat and have never had one pinched before,’ he said.

At first he thought it was just another fisherman’s prank, but grew concerned when no one owned up. After initial annoyance, he became resigned to losing the motor that he recently had serviced for the new season.

‘I don’t think there is much chance of getting it back now – it’s just one of those things,’ he said.

Fortunately, his son donated an identical Mercury motor bought as a pair with his father’s nine years ago, so Mr Bourgaize’s fishing schedule has not been interrupted.

nÊAnyone with any information is asked to call the police on 725111 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.