In Eysines, Gironde, a police patrol arrested a man on Saturday afternoon, July 25, suspected of stealing 44 bottles of fine wines. The suspect was parked in front of a private property that had been evacuated due to the fire ravaging the region. Officers discovered the stolen wine in his vehicle and took him into custody.
Evacuated areas that are difficult to protect
The region is battling two major wildfires that have already forced 141,000 people to evacuate their homes. The flames have burned through 19,000 hectares in the southwest and destroyed around 100 buildings. The mass evacuations have left many homes unattended, creating opportunities for thieves.
This looting illustrates the difficulties faced by authorities in securing evacuated areas. Patrols are increasing around abandoned properties, but the sheer size of the affected territories complicates surveillance. Residents fear finding their belongings gone once they are allowed to return.
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