New police unit declares war on farm theft

A fearless new unit hailed as the "guardians of Jamaica's breadbasket" has been deployed to defend the nation's farmers from criminals who have long plagued the agricultural sector.

The newly minted Agricultural Protection Branch (APB) of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) was officially launched at the Tactical Academy of the Specialised Operations Branch in Kingston on Friday. Its creation signals a bold, unprecedented approach to fighting praedial larceny.

"Jamaica's economy and social fabric are deeply intertwined with its agricultural sector," said Deputy Commissioner of Police Warren Clarke, as he delivered a powerful charge to the officers selected for the branch.

"Agriculture provides employment, contributes to food security, and supports rural communities."

The APB is being led by Senior Superintendent Oral Pascoe, who emphasised the gravity of the assignment.

"The establishment of the Agricultural Protection Branch underscores the JCF's commitment to protecting this vital sector from threats such as praedial larceny, vandalism, and other criminal activities that undermine agricultural productivity and economic growth."

Minister of Agriculture Floyd Green expressed confidence that the APB will be a game changer in the fight against farm theft.

"The Agricultural Protection Branch will ultimately protect our farmers, protect our food, and more than that - will protect our future," he said.

The launch of the APB comes amid sweeping reforms to combat praedial larceny, including amendments to the Agricultural Produce Act, steeper fines, stiffer prison terms, and new licensing and traceability requirements. According to Minister Green, these legislative tools, combined with the boots-on-the-ground presence of the APB, will close the net around those who target Jamaica's rural lifeblood.