Anchorage police suspect some people are stealing outboard engines for boats and reselling them on the Internet.

Police say about 25 thefts have occurred since May in Anchorage and Eagle River.

Once advertised on Internet sales sites, prospective buyers meet up with a seller -- usually a woman -- in a public parking lot to make the exchange. Police say in a statement the motors being sold are typically smaller units known as "kickers."

Police say tipoffs the motor may have been stolen include cut wiring or fuel lines or evidence of attempts to erase the serial number.

If anyone responded to such an ad, they are asked to call Det. Sherry Price at 907-786-8846.