Meeting between gendarmerie and farmers

On 27 October, a meeting was held in Châtaigneraie, Leynhac, between the gendarmerie and around fifteen farmers to discuss various issues affecting agriculture, including thefts, conflicts with newcomers, and digital scams.

Gendarme representatives and discussion topics

The gendarmerie was represented by Major Train, who has been in charge of the Maurs-Saint-Mamet brigade community since August, and Adjudant-Chef Dehay. The discussion, initiated by Jean-Noël Fau of the FDSEA, covered topics such as farm security, conflicts with people unfamiliar with agricultural practices, and regulations for agricultural machinery on roads.

Security concerns and solutions

Farmers expressed concerns about rising fuel and metal prices, leading to fears of thefts of GPS devices, tools, and machinery stored in easily accessible farm buildings. Adjudant-Chef Dehay noted that a lock alone may not prevent theft, and while a dog could provide some alert, it has limitations for isolated buildings. Surveillance cameras were suggested as a solution to monitor and alert farmers remotely.

Nature of farm thefts and recent incidents

Gendarme Dehay explained that delinquency in the Cantal region is mainly itinerant and committed by organized professionals, often near major roads like the A75. The farm Bonnafoux in Rageade was recently a victim of such an incident, and the town hall tank in Quézac was also emptied.

Security assessments and registration programs

Two military personnel can provide free security assessments for farms, helping determine the best protective measures. Adjudant-Chef Dehay also invited farmers to register with the gendarmerie under the Operation Tranquillity for Businesses and Commerce to ensure contact information and surveillance details are on file.

Reporting suspicious activities

Farmers were encouraged to report any suspicious vehicles or individuals by calling 17, day or night. One farmer shared an experience where he reported a suspicious vehicle, which led to the discovery of a stolen chainsaw from a neighbor's farm.

Tensions with new residents

Farmers expressed concerns that their practices are being criticized by new residents in the area. They fear being filmed while treating crops and having the video shared on social media with negative comments, even though they follow regulations.

Addressing false accusations and digital challenges

Adjudant-Chef Dehay noted that penal responses to false accusations are cautious, and removing defamatory videos from digital platforms can be a lengthy process. Some farmers feel that certain practices, like spreading fertilizer in the evening, are misunderstood by new residents.

Challenges with agricultural regulations

Jean-Noël Fau shared an experience where he was denounced for temporarily damaging the road during an agricultural project. He explained that he had put up a warning sign, but the gendarmes emphasized that investigations are required and that exoneration is possible if justified.

Rural incivility and double standards

Denis Boudou highlighted a growing sense of incivility in rural areas, such as being honked at while moving livestock or driving a tractor. Farmers feel that there is a "two weights, two measures" approach, especially regarding rave parties on agricultural land, which seem to face fewer consequences than similar actions by professionals.

Preventing illegal gatherings

Gendarmes acknowledged that preventing the installation of illegal gatherings is difficult once they are set up, and they rely on farmers to report such incidents. Similar meetings have already taken place in Siran and Saint-Étienne-de-Chomeil.

Recent theft at Bonnafoux farm

The Gaec du Cèdre bleu, also known as the Bonnafoux farm in Rageade, was the victim of a theft on 23 to 24 October. A utility vehicle containing around 200 kg of cheese was stolen, with damages estimated at over 2,600 euros. The vehicle was later found burned in Lubilhac, Haute-Loire.

Investigating the theft

The nature of the theft, whether opportunistic or on command, is under investigation. The farm members are asking consumers to report any possible presence of the stolen cheeses, especially in markets.

Cantal's security and crime trends

Major Train noted that the Cantal remains a secure area, with a decrease in farm thefts recorded by internal security forces in France between 2016 and 2025. The targeted goods have evolved, with agricultural GPS thefts increasing significantly until 2024 before declining in 2025, indicating more organized crime.