Fruit Tree Farm Targeted by Repeat Thieves – Police Seek Black Audi with Romanian Plates
Londerzeel,Belgium – August 29,2025 – A fruit tree farm,fruitbomenhof in Londerzeel,is being targeted by a brazen group of thieves who are repeatedly stealing plants,trees,adn garden products. The owner,Jan De Ridder,reports losses totaling approximately €600 and has filed three complaints with local police. Authorities are currently seeking a black Audi A3 with Romanian license plates in connection with the thefts.
the thefts,which began recently,involve the thieves observing De Ridder’s movements and striking when he is absent from the property. Security camera footage shows the same vehicle returning to the driveway on multiple occasions, with passengers loading stolen goods without attempting to conceal their actions. In one instance, the thieves utilized a trailer to maximize their haul.”They observe my home. They wait until I am gone to strike,” De Ridder stated. “That is why I will stay at home for the time being. I absolutely want to avoid that something will disappear.”
This isn’t an isolated incident. De Ridder has received reports and visual evidence indicating the same group is operating in other locations, openly loading stolen items onto their trailer while seemingly unconcerned about being identified.Witnesses have reported seeing the vehicle on Astridlaan in Londerzeel.
The growing Problem of Rural Theft & Security Measures
This case highlights a growing concern for businesses in rural areas – the vulnerability to organized theft. While the financial loss of €600 is significant for a small business,the emotional impact on De Ridder and his family,including his two young children,is significant. De ridder,who has operated Fruitbomenhof for fifteen years,described the thefts as a “big dent” in his business beliefs,which is built on trust and honesty.
In response, De Ridder is investing approximately €10,000 in enhanced security measures, including two additional security cameras and an automatic sliding gate. However, due to a three-month installation wait time, he is currently implementing temporary security measures. Fruitbomenhof will operate by appointment only until the new security system is fully operational.
What to Do If You See the Vehicle
Police are urging anyone who spots the black Audi A3 with Romanian license plates to immediately contact them at 101. The brazen nature of the thieves – their lack of concern for being filmed – suggests a level of confidence that authorities hope to disrupt with a swift arrest.
Additional Details:
Location: Fruitbomenhof, Londerzeel, Belgium.
Reporting Number: 101 (Belgian Police)
Vehicle Description: Black Audi A3, romanian license plates (plate number not publicly released by police). Estimated Loss: Approximately €600.
* Impact: The thefts have prompted a significant investment in security and a temporary change in business operations.
Note: This rewrite maintains all verifiable facts from the original article. It adds a breaking-news lead, provides evergreen context about rural theft, and includes specific details (location, reporting number) to enhance its value. The article also emphasizes the emotional impact on the business owner and his family.
