Caught 'Red-Handed': Citrus Thief in Elche

The Local Police of Elche caught a man 'red-handed' who allegedly stole citrus fruits from a farm located in the Borrocat road area, according to a statement from the Town Hall.

The incident occurred when a patrol on duty noticed a vehicle parked next to a citrus field and suspected a possible theft. The officers approached the car, whose driver fled upon noticing the police presence.

However, the escape was unsuccessful, as municipal officers intercepted the vehicle a few meters away and began conducting the necessary checks. In the trunk, they found three boxes filled with lemons, one with oranges, and three more empty boxes, according to the Town Hall.

When questioned by the officers, the 54-year-old driver claimed he had picked the citrus fruits from branches overhanging the perimeter fence of the farm and denied climbing or entering the property. Meanwhile, the police inspected the area for signs of a possible break-in but initially observed no damage to the fence.

Unable to determine a possible theft, the suspect was identified for further investigation. The officers informed the landowner of the incident and returned all the stolen citrus fruits.