Agriculture Minister Pearnel Charles Junior, is sending a strong warning to those involved in praedial larceny, to desist, as the authorities will be targeting them.

He says its estimated, that praedial larceny, robs the agriculture sector and farmers, over $5 billion in produce and livestock annually– funds which could help the country to grow.

Mr Charles states, that the ministry considers farm theft to be a critical deterrent, to the development of rural communities, and consequently, national development.

The new agriculture minister says, those who steal farm produce or livestock will be rooted out, so they do not deter people, who want to get into agriculture.

He points out, that through the praedial larceny prevention unit at the ministry, a number of strategies are being pursued, to combat the problem. This includes, legislative amendments, such as the strengthening and modernizing of the agricultural produce act.

According to Mr Charles, it will also be critical for the formation of strong and effective farm–watch groups, and there will be sensitisation, and capacity–building–sessions, for all stakeholders.

The agriculture minister states, that praedial larceny, will be one of the issues of importance tackled, as if this is not addressed, agriculture will not be sustainable.