Home / Disasters and Accidents / Thieves Sink Yacht Stealing Bell, Pollute Highland River
Thieves Sink Yacht Stealing Bell, Pollute Highland River
12 May
Summary
- A motor yacht sank after thieves stole its bell and other items.
- Fuel leaked into the River Ness, causing an oily sheen on the water.
- Authorities are managing the pollution and planning a costly salvage operation.
A vintage motor yacht, MY Anneke, built in the 1930s, sank in Loch Dochfour, located south of Inverness near Loch Ness. The sinking occurred after unknown individuals broke into the vessel between May 3 and May 5, 2026. During the break-in, the yacht's original polished brass bell, embossed with its name, was stolen along with other items.
The theft led to the yacht sinking, which in turn caused a significant fuel leak into the River Ness. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has confirmed that measures are being implemented to address the resulting pollution. An oily-like sheen was observed on the surface of the loch and river, though Sepa stated significant environmental impacts are not expected due to water movement.
Police Scotland has issued an appeal for witnesses to come forward. Officials described the stolen bell as irreplaceable and noted the considerable cost and difficulty involved in salvaging the sunken vessel for subsequent repairs. The Ness District Salmon Fishery Board commended the owner's swift action in addressing the diesel spill, highlighting the fortunate avoidance of a more severe ecological incident.
