Minister Hosein issues strong warning “We are now ready and equipped to address and deal with the outlaws.”

March 28, 2024:-  Senator the Honourable Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, fulfilled his commitment to fortify and empower the Praedial Larceny Squad (PLS) by welcoming 67 new recruits into the squad’s ranks today.

In a ceremony held at the Naparima Bowl in San Fernando earlier this morning, sixty-seven (67) dedicated individuals officially joined the esteemed ranks of the PLS. Among this cohort are sixty-one (61) constables, including eighteen (18) women and forty-three (43) men, as well as six (6) corporals, including two (2) women and four (4) men. This substantial expansion brings the PLS’s total staff complement to 104 members, significantly enhancing the unit’s capability to effectively combat and mitigate praedial larceny.

During the ceremony, PLS Administration Shaishnarine Katwaroo provided valuable insights into the rigorous training program, stating, “Our graduates are well-equipped to confront the challenges facing our farmers.”

During his feature address, Minister Hosein responded to criticisms of the squad and described the officers “as some of the hardest working in the Ministry,” adding that “nothing happens overnight.” He used the opportunity to issue a stern warning to wrongdoers, “I can guarantee the PLS is working, and they will deal with you.”

The Minister revealed that the current PLS model drew inspiration from successful international and regional counterparts within CARICOM, particularly highlighting Jamaica’s specialized unit combating agricultural theft. He emphasized the importance of community engagement and strategic law enforcement, contributing to considerable success in similar initiatives.

Addressing a packed hall, Senator Hosein underscored the significance of collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, stressing, “Our strategy revolves around robust partnerships with stakeholders, including the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) and the Trinidad and Tobago Municipal Police Service (TTMPS), amplifying our efforts in combating praedial larceny.”

Additionally, the Minister announced a substantial increase in the PLS’s arsenal of arms and ammunition, alongside the provision of new vehicles to reinforce the squad’s fleet. He emphasized, “These enhancements underscore our unwavering commitment to ensuring preparedness against threats and maintaining a professional image while on duty.”

In recognition of the squad’s recent efficiency and improvements, Minister Hosein commended the dedicated men and women of the PLS. He remarked, “I commend the PLS on its remarkable improvement rates, including notable achievements such as arrests and convictions, extensive patrols, farm visits, and filed reports. Despite challenges, including the temporary closure of some offices, we have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, reaffirming our dedication to combating praedial larceny.” The Minister reiterated the Ministry’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding our farmers’ livelihoods and securing the future prosperity of our agricultural sector.

San Fernando West MP and Minister of Local Government, Faris Al-Rawi, also addressed the morning’s graduation, congratulating the graduates and reminding them of their solemn responsibility as they enter the ranks.

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