Police seek public co-operation to stem theft of livestock and agricultural produce

The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) are appealing to the public not to facilitate the purchase or sale of agricultural produce or livestock suspected to have been stolen or unlawfully obtained.

In a release dated May 26, the police said in recent weeks they have noted a spike in reports of theft of animals, mainly in some rural villages on the mainland.

Therefore, in accordance with the Agricultural Produce and Livestock (Prevention of Theft) Act, the RSVGPF has sought to remind the public of the following: 1. A person who sells or otherwise disposes of agricultural produce or livestock valued at EC $50 or more or weighs five kilograms (11.02 lbs) or more must be registered with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

The RSVGPF encourages the public not to purchase any crops or livestock from sellers who do not have a valid registration card.

2. Sales and purchases of crops and livestock must be transacted between 5:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

3. The seller of the item(s) must issue a receipt or certificate of purchase to the buyer. This receipt must be dated and have the cost of the sold livestock or produce.

4. A person convicted under this legislation can be fined EC$10,000 or sentenced to two years imprisonment or both. Moreover, if the convicted person used a motor vehicle to transport the stolen items, the court can confiscate the said vehicle, sell it, and deposit the proceeds into the Consolidated Fund.

The RSVGPF strongly advises persons to desist from the practice of stealing other people’s livestock and agricultural produce. If you suspect anyone of selling or buying stolen produce the police is asking that they be contacted immediately.