outboard motor. Photo – Str / Lehtikuva.
In Finland, professional criminal gangs are mainly behind the thefts of outboard motors, explains the Coast Guard. About 1,800 reports of stolen engines or engine parts were made last year.
The most common thefts take place in marinas for small boats, and the motors could already be shipped out of the country, usually to Eastern Europe, before the owners even know about the crime.
The police, in conjunction with the Border Guard, urge boat owners to properly lock their boats and to report thefts of motors as soon as possible.
“We cannot stop the export of engines across the border, unless they are under investigation by the West Finland Coast Guard,” said Lt. Jim Kvarnström.
If the VIN number of the engine is known, Schengen search warrants can be administered at possible border crossings.
