Aerial surveillance technology has become a key tool for the Riba-roja de Túria Local Police during the carob harvesting campaign. This special operation, now in its fourth consecutive year, primarily aims to prevent thefts of this crop, which is particularly vulnerable due to its market value.
In collaboration with the Upryme Patrol (Proximity and Environment Unit), the operation uses drones to identify areas with the largest carob tree plantations. Surveillance is intensified during hours with fewer farmers and seasonal workers present, thereby optimizing resources and covering more cultivated land in less time.
The operation also includes monitoring warehouses and points of sale to prevent misappropriation and illegal commercialization of the fruit. Councilor for Citizen Security, Raquel Pamblanco, highlighted the importance of these technological systems, which enhance security in the municipality's extensive forest and agricultural areas, complementing other campaigns like Previfoc.
Since the preventive surveillance of the natural, riverine, and agricultural environment began on June 30th, 100 dynamic surveillance services have been conducted in agricultural areas, along with 13 operations to verify the identities of harvesters. The campaign will remain active until the end of August, coinciding with the end of the carob harvest.
