Hundreds of Traps Stranded at Sea After Boats Vandalized

Fishermen of the swallow hole fishing village in Runaway Bay, St. Ann are at a standstill after their boat engines were stolen overnight.

For many, fishing is their lone source of income. Now. They don’t know what to do. 

Five boats rendered useless after the theft and vandalism now sit on the shores of the swallow hole fishing village. Fisherfolk on Friday realized 4 boat engines were stolen and another vessel vandalized overnight. 

The theft is not only affecting the 5 boatmen but the approximately 40 people who rely on them to bring hundreds of fish pots to shore that are now stuck at sea. The fishermen say that without the engines, it is impossible to retrieve the pots. Paddling into the deep is not a feasible option.

For many, this is their only way to make a living. Speaking directly to the perpetrators, Councillor Carlton Ricketts of the Dry Harbour division condemned the act appealing for the return of the engines.

The total loss is estimated at over 3 million dollars. Reports have been made to the relevant authorities, but with no leads, they watch, pray, and wait.