According to a Ukrainian businessman in the area, Russian troops in the captured city of Melitopol have stolen all the equipment from a farm equipment store and sent it to Chechnya.
The thieves, however, areunable to utilise any of the equipment after travelling over 700 miles because it has an electronic lock.
Beyond extensive theft of households, there have been an increasing number of stories in recent weeks; of Russian forces stealing farm equipment; grain, and even building supplies. However, the theft of significant agricultural equipment from a John Deere outlet in Melitopol; indicates that the heist is becoming more coordinated; with Russian military transport being used as part of the heist.
The equipment was removed from an Agrotek dealership in Melitopol, which has been occupied by Russian forces since early March. Altogether it’s valued at nearly $5 million. The combine harvesters alone are worth $300,000 each.
