Farmers complain about a recent surge in praedial larceny.
The prolonged issue of praedial larceny is again rearing its head, with several local farmers raising fresh alarms after being targeted by thieves who made away with their livestock, leaving them out of pocket.
A few farmers spoke to the local media, sharing their plight and appealing for assistance from the relevant authorities. “Sometimes you’re home in your bed with your family and your mind is still out there. You’re not at rest. You’re not at peace. Because you have people watching you, and planning and preparing themselves to come,” one farmer explained.
The Vice President of the National Livestock Association stated in a media interview that incidents of larceny have increased in recent weeks. He noted that while some farmers were able to prevent theft, others were not so lucky.
Farmer Tori Sheppard stated, “This morning I went and looked again and I still can’t find them. It’s real hard because one can be worth five thousand, ten thousand, sometimes fifteen thousand, and one man comes in and steals it.”
“You’re going to have to find a way to nurse that calf like its mother. You’re going to have to buy milk, you’re going to have to make time to feed him at least three times a day,” another farmer shared, pointing out the significant losses incurred.
According to Mathew, the issue is further exacerbated by the inability of farmers to insure their livestock. He also explained that slaughtered animals that have been medicated could end up in the food chain, urging the public to pay attention to where and from whom they purchase meat.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2024/06/06/farmers-complain-about-a-recent-surge-in-praedial-larceny. © 2024 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
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