AN INCREASE in thefts around West Dorset harbours has resulted in day and night patrols by the Portland police marine section.

In Weymouth Harbour two lots of blue fenders were stolen from a pontoon with two blue straps around each one.

A Suzuki 2.2hp outboard was taken from Chapmans Pool over the last couple of weeks, which is identifiable by a small crack under the tiller arm.

A Honda 2.3hp four-stroke outboard was stolen from the hard standing at the new Dean and Reddyhoff Portland Marina.

PC Richie White said: “We have been seeing an increase in minor thefts from within the inner harbour areas, with tenders being set adrift, light fishing gear that has been left on view on decks also stolen.

“We have in the past had fishermen taking sand eels – which have been trawled and kept in captivity in order to use as live bait – from other fishermen.

“This obviously has a detrimental effect on the honest fishermen’s living potential.

“If offenders are caught by police officers taking bait being kept in captivity they will be dealt with under the provisions of the theft act.”

He added: “We are conducting proactive patrols at all times of the day and night within the local harbours in an attempt to catch offenders.”

The Honda 2.3hp four-stroke outboard stolen has serial number BAVJ1011624.

If anyone has seen or been offered anything they consider suspicious, contact the Portland marine section via the police switchboard 01305 222222.