Pistachio harvest needs police protection

Sicily is home to the world’s most-prized variety of the seed – the pistacchio verde di Bronte, or green pistachio from Bronte.

Centred on the town of Bronte, the pistachio trees grow across some 3,000 hectares (7,400 acres) on the slopes of Etna, an active volcano.

Although Bronte pistachios account for just 1% of global production of the crop, they are easily the most expensive.

However, given the lucrative nature of the crop, it attracts a continuing problem during harvesting time – thieves.

At least six officers are going to patrol in the daytime, and up to 12 at night. And if need be, they will launch the police helicopter. (BBC, origo)