Looters raid deluged Spanish towns as police arrest dozens of flooding thieves
Sophie Reaper covers Valencia's flash floods
GB NEWS
Looters have been raiding shops across rain-swept Valencia as the death toll reaches 158.
Spanish police announced a major crackdown after thieves snatched items from supermarkets and electrical stores.
Bonaire Shopping Centre close to Valencia's airport and the towns of Aldaia and Alfafar appeared to be the areas worst affected by both looting and flood damage.
Officers have reportedly arrested 39 people for allegedly trying to take advantage of the horrendous conditions.
Flash floods have had a major impact in Spain
GETTY
Local reports suggest the number arrested by Policia Nacional rose to 60 people yesterday.
An eyewitness said: “In the Consum supermarket they have taken everything: every last egg and in Cajamar, they have stolen all the money.”
“At the optician due to open next week, they did not even leave a pair of glasses.”
Another claimed: “They have stolen everything- jewellery, money… even the sheets.”
A man on crutches walks next to a damaged car, after heavy rains in Alfafar, in Valencia, Spain
REUTERS
However, local residents remain dependent on receiving aid, with the army being brought in to speed up distribution.
The official death toll reached 158 yesterday, with Spanish King Felipe VI warning the emergency is “not over”.
Dozens of people remain missing after the flash floods shocked Spain.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed his sadness about the tragic flash floodings.
The floods have had a devastating impact
REUTERS
He said: "Our thoughts go out to those whose homes and possessions have been devastated and whose lives have been covered in mud.
"We are united and we will rebuild your streets and your squares and bridges.”
Spain’s national weather service Aemet has issued yet another red warning.
Aemet said: “Torrential rains are being recorded in towns such as Cartaya, with 117 l/m² in less than three hours. 70 of them in just one hour. The warning remains active, for now, until 9am.”
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