WESTMORELAND, Jamaica — The Praedial Larceny Unit (PLPU) of the Jamaica Constabulary Force is reporting that 13 people were charged for several breaches during an operation in Westmoreland yesterday, February 4.

The PLPU, responsible for the apprehension of farm thieves, said that those arrested were charged for breaches of the Agricultural Produce Act, the Offensive Weapons Act, the Livestock Control Order, and the Offences against the Person Act.

Reports are that between 7:15 am and 12:23 pm a team of officers served five butchers summonses for failing to report their intention to slaughter animals. Eight people were arrested for offences including assault occasioning actual bodily harm; assault at common law; and possession of offensive weapon. 

Additionally approximately 100 pounds of oranges were seized when the vendor selling the produce ran on the approach of the police. The police say that further investigations are being conducted in relation to this seizure.

Meanwhile, Head of the PLPU, Deputy Superintendent of Police Kevin Francis, said he was satisfied that many farmers were in possession of receipt books and were utilizing them. 

He also reminded the public that they must have an agricultural produce receipt when possession of, buying and selling, or transporting any agricultural produce.