Algarve orange thefts prompt calls for increased police patrols

The Social Democratic Party of Algarve (PSD Algarve) is demanding urgent reinforcement of police patrols in the region’s citrus‑growing areas after producers reported organised thefts of orange crops. Party leader Cristóvão Norte said that several tonnes of oranges have been stolen, with losses estimated at up to five percent of total production, and that the crimes involve coordinated transport and distribution networks.

Producers in Silves confirmed that the stolen fruit is appearing in parallel markets, prompting the party to ask for joint action by the National Republican Guard (GNR), the Food and Economic Safety Authority (ASAE) and the Tax and Customs Authority. The goal is to boost surveillance, trace distribution channels and block the sale of illegally obtained oranges.