An organised crop theft ring has resurfaced in villages around Laona in the Paphos district, with women on quad bikes stealing produce and selling it immediately to waiting buyers, according to new police complaints.
- The scheme, initially uncovered by Phileleftheros last April, had seen a temporary halt before resuming recently, as detailed in complaints filed to local law enforcement and officials.
The scheme, initially uncovered by Phileleftheros last April, had seen a temporary halt before resuming recently, as detailed in complaints filed to local law enforcement and officials.
Reports indicate that women working in farms and local businesses are riding quad bikes into fields, stealing crops, and selling them on the spot to accomplices nearby. This troubling trend has become a growing concern among local farmers and residents.
The operation came to light when a farmland owner discovered a stranger on a quad bike in her field. Upon being noticed, the woman began taking photographs with her mobile phone. When questioned about her presence, she claimed she was merely photographing the surroundings.
However, the landowner had already observed large quantities of her crops cut and placed in bags next to the quad bike. After leaving to inform her relatives, she witnessed a commercial vehicle arrive, from which an unknown man emerged. The woman approached him with the stolen produce, which led to a startling exchange.
The buyer initially offered her €20, but after a brief confrontation, he increased the amount to €40 before driving off with the stolen goods. The landowner managed to photograph the quad bike before it left and subsequently filed a complaint with the police.
Other plantation owners have reported similar incidents, indicating that this operation is systematic and well-organised. Local residents have also voiced their concerns to officials, prompting MP Chrysanthos Savvides to confirm the reports and highlight the existence of an organised gang targeting the area.
Farmers and residents from Drouseia and surrounding areas have expressed frustration, stating that women on quad bikes frequently invade farms, cut crops, and sell them within minutes to buyers arriving in vehicles. This rapid turnover has raised alarms about the need for increased vigilance and protective measures for local agriculture.
