Overview

• Recent reports describe large-scale thefts from fields and private gardens in regions such as the Nord and the Lot, with hundreds of kilos taken in single nights.
• The commander of the Arras gendarmerie says the volumes point to resale within close circles, and the force plans to reinforce patrols.
• Victims recount losses including about 200 kilograms of squashes valued near €700, prompting some to preemptively harvest and store remaining produce.
• Farmers are turning to deterrents, with examples ranging from €5,000 fencing to €10,000 video systems, while others consider installing cameras despite added costs.
• Police made at least one arrest over the summer and urge every victim to file a complaint, yet agricultural unions estimate that roughly 90% do not report thefts.