Police seeks suspects in string of dinghy thefts. Jamal Freeman among the wanted. Photo: Provided

Police identified Jamal Freeman, known to frequent the Greenland area, as one of the five young men that were seen last Friday travelling by sea from Trellis Bay toward Queen Elizabeth Island Bridge with three stolen dinghies in tow. All the dinghies were recovered in this incident however the five young men still remain at large. Freeman is also wanted on other related offences.

Jamal Freeman, 20, is 5’8, approximately 135 pounds, slim built with black hair. Owners of homes in which he has previously resided are stating that he no longer lives there.

Over the last week, nine dinghies and a 17-foot Boston Whaler were reported missing. All the dinghies except one were recovered undamaged, were processed by scenes of crime and returned to their owners. At least two of the dinghies were suspected to have drifted away having not been properly secured. The Boston Whaler is still missing.

In a February press release, police reported an increase in dinghy thefts and urged owners to take the necessary steps to secure and safeguard these items. At that time, a search of the mangroves and adjoining areas by Police Marine Officers had resulted in the recovery of most of the dinghies but no engines were attached. A later search has resulted in the recovery of five boat engines.

Acting Chief Inspector Marlon Charles is inviting persons who have had dinghies stolen or missing to visit the Police Marine Base at Road Reef with identification and the necessary ownership documents to claim these items. Several of these vessels were confiscated and are now being held at the Marine Unit.

Police are appealing to the public for information that could assist in identifying the perpetrators responsible for these thefts. Persons with information can call the Intelligence Unit at 468-9339 or anonymously call the Crimestopper Hotline in Miami at 800-TIPS, 800-8477.