Where do 14.5 tons of oysters disappear too? How long will they keep fresh? The one (or several thousands) that got away?
Photo by Allerina & Glen MacLarty
"I'm split between anger and surprise at retrieving (many of) my oyster," said one of the robbed farmers. "But I also know that such thefts risk multiplying in future," he warned.
Oyster prices have rocketed by up to 50 per cent in recent months, reaching £15 per dozen in some areas, after a three-year shellfish plague that has all but wiped out young oysters. Scientists are warning that the viral epidemic is so widespread that there may be no oysters left for next year's festive season.
The price hikes have led to a rise in thefts. The Oléron area registered around 10 robberies last year but the number doubled from October to January. Local gendarmes have stepped up helicopter and boat patrols in an attempt to thwart the thieves.
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