Pomegranate thefts leave Maharashtra farmers frustrated

India Nov 23, 2025

Farmers in Maharashtra's Pune, Solapur, Nashik, and Ahilyanagar districts are dealing with a wave of pomegranate thefts this monsoon.
With fruit prices shooting up to ₹200-300 per kilo, thieves have been targeting ripe crops, leaving growers anxious and out of pocket.

Gangs suspected as losses mount

Many farmers think organized gangs are behind the heists, knowing exactly when to strike for maximum profit.
Shahaji Walunj from Shindodi lost 4.5 tons of pomegranates overnight—a story echoed by at least 15 other big thefts across the region.
While some villages have started night patrols (wildlife like leopards make this tricky), police have made just one arrest so far and say more security is needed to protect these valuable crops.