Praedial Larceny Unit Achieves Notable Success in Combating Agricultural Theft in Jamaica
October 22, 2024
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Praedial Larceny Prevention Unit, an integral arm of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), has achieved significant strides in reducing agricultural theft across the island in 2024. The latest data, presented by Agriculture Minister Floyd Green in the House of Representatives, showcased the unit’s efforts in tackling one of the persistent challenges within the agricultural sector.
Minister Green highlighted the proactive measures taken by the unit, mentioning the renewed recruitment drive that initiated the selection of the country’s first 100 agricultural wardens. These additions aim to bolster efforts in safeguarding farmers’ interests and act as a deterrent against agricultural theft. According to Green, the unit has demonstrated improved outcomes compared to the previous year, 2023.
Key achievements from the Praedial Larceny Prevention Unit as of September 30, 2024, include:
- 79 arrests: A slight increase from the 78 arrests made in 2023.
- 137 cases presented in court: Compared to 138 cases in 2023, demonstrating a consistent judicial follow-through.
- Six convictions: Although this marks a decrease from the 15 convictions attained last year, the Ministry remains optimistic about future outcomes.
- 149 farm watch programs administered: A significant increase from 107 programs in the previous year, indicating enhanced community engagement and preventive measures.
- 3,481 operations and raids conducted: Illustrating a robust, persistent effort to curb agricultural theft.
- 2,279 sensitization sessions undertaken: Up from 1,763 in 2023, these sessions aim to raise awareness among communities and farmers.
Furthermore, the dedicated patrols targeting praedial larceny continued with 11,488 conducted in 2024, compared to the previous year’s 12,227. In the fisheries sector, which also falls under the program’s purview, a notable increase in operations was reported, with 5,719 fishing beach operations conducted, surpassing the 4,863 conducted in 2023.
To support these efforts, the Ministry of Agriculture has doubled the workforce of the Praedial Larceny Unit and acquired a new Toyota Hilux vehicle to boost the team’s mobility. Green announced plans to expand this fleet further, ensuring the unit’s capacity to promptly respond to incidents across Jamaica.
Reflecting on these strides, Minister Green emphasized the critical role the Praedial Larceny Prevention Unit plays in not only safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers but also in ensuring that agricultural production continues to thrive without the crippling threat of theft.
These efforts mark a significant chapter in Jamaica’s battle against agricultural theft, signifying the government’s commitment to securing the island’s food security and supporting its rural communities.
(Source: Jamaica Observer)
