THEFTS FROM LAUNCHES

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22868, 30 April 1936, Page 13

THEFTS FROM LAUNCHES

AUCKLAND OWNERS CONCERNED STEPS TO SECURE PROTECTION (Special to Daily Times) AUCKLAND, April 29. Thefts from launches and yachts, several of which have been reported recently, are causing much concern among owners of small craft, and the absence of a night patrol of any kind, it is contended, places the owners of boats at the mercy of thieves. Irrespective of the actual theft of articles the damage done by thieves who raid small boats is considerable when spread over a year, and in addition there is the inconvenience caused to owners. Sonic of the thieves are apparently willing to take risks. One owner recently discovered that several them had held a party on his boat. Most of the thefts from small boats arc confined to provisions, blankets, cutlery and crockery, but there have been instances where engines have been removed from launches. The construction of a small boat is not such that it offers much resistance even in the best boats, and it is quite an easy matter for anyone to prise open any door or cupboard. Boat owners point out that -it is unreasonable to expect them to exercise a watch nightly over their boats, but they consider that some authority —the Marine Department, Harbour Board or police, should establish a patrol at night which would at least minimise the thefts and damage. The fact that the subject of thefts from launches and yachts in Auckland was mentioned in Parliament by Mr W, P. Endean, the member for Parnell, last week has brought a ray of hope to boat owners, Mr Endean has asked the Minister of Marine to give the matter aerictus consideration, and it may be that protection will be provided.