Hosein Urges for Action Against Criminals, Not Law Enforcement Officers Fighting Agricultural Theft

The central division of the Praedial Larceny unit continued to carry out their duties effectively despite not being housed at their office in Carlsen Field. Agriculture Minister Kazim Hosein reassured the public that officers were relocated to the Craignish office in Princes Town to continue their work. Between January 2024 and February 2024, 254 patrols were conducted, over 2000 farmers were visited, and 36 praedial larceny reports were actively investigated. Repair works at the Carlsen Field location are scheduled for completion by the end of April. Despite concerns about response times for emergencies due to the distance between Princes Town and Carlsen Field, Hosein explained that most operations were taking place in Central at the Ministry’s head office and smaller locations. He also mentioned that more than 40 recruits will soon be added to the current squad.

When asked about farmers’ complaints regarding a lack of officers and an increase in attacks in recent times, Hosein emphasized that the focus should be on the criminals committing the crimes rather than the officers. He urged individuals to direct their attention towards those involved in stealing and to give them a warning against such actions. Hosein defended the effectiveness of the praedial larceny squad, stating that they are successful at what they do and cannot be stationed at every farmer’s house. Despite challenges faced by the officers, Hosein maintained that their work is ongoing and successful.

Minister Hosein’s comments were made in response to questions raised by opposition senator Damian Lyder during a session in the Upper House. Hosein highlighted the continued efforts of the praedial larceny squad in combating theft in the agriculture sector. He dismissed criticisms about the lack of officers and emphasized the importance of holding the perpetrators accountable for their actions. While acknowledging the concerns raised by farmers, Hosein reiterated the commitment of the unit to addressing issues of praedial larceny and ensuring the protection of farmers’ livelihoods.

The Praedial Larceny unit’s operations have continued without interruption, despite the challenges posed by the relocation of officers to the Craignish office in Princes Town. Minister Hosein provided assurance that repair works at the Carlsen Field location are on schedule for completion by the end of April. He also announced plans to recruit additional officers to bolster the existing squad and enhance their ability to combat praedial larceny effectively. Despite concerns raised about response times for emergencies, Hosein reiterated that the unit’s work in Central was ongoing and that measures were in place to address any potential issues.

In conclusion, Minister Hosein reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling praedial larceny and protecting farmers from theft in the agriculture sector. While acknowledging the challenges faced by the Praedial Larceny unit, including the need for repairs at their Carlsen Field office and concerns about response times, Hosein emphasized the unit’s continued effectiveness in investigating and addressing cases of theft. By focusing on holding criminals accountable for their actions and reinforcing the squad with additional recruits, the government aims to strengthen efforts to combat praedial larceny and ensure the security of farmers’ livelihoods.