Zodiac boat stolen from Victoria marina, latest in series of marine-related thefts

A 25-foot Zodiac boat was stolen last week in what police say is a series of marine-related thefts since mid-July.

Police say on  the morning of July 29 a suspect stole the Zodiac, worth $100,000, from the Victoria International Marina, and it was found later the same day near Slack Point in Ladysmith.

The owner of the boat was reunited with the vessel, but the person who stole it was not caught.

He is described as being between 35 and 40 years old, about 5’6″ and weighing around 140 pounds. He was wearing a red hooded sweater and a yellow shoulder bag, and was later seen in Ladysmith riding a blue mountain bike that he unloaded from the boat when he left the area, according to police.

Investigators say the Zodiac theft is part of a “concerning trend” of 14 marine-related thefts in the Victoria and Esquimalt area since mid-July.

“Thieves have targeted boats, kayaks, motorized vessels and engines during this series,” police said in a statement.

Boat owners are reminded to secure their vessels and equipment.

Anyone with information on the marine thefts or who recognizes the suspect in the Zodiac theft is asked to call police at 250-995-7654 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

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