Durrant Pate/Contributor

 The Agricultural Protection Branch (APB) of the police force is commending its Area 5 personnel for their swift and decisive response, which led to the recovery of five stolen animals.

The animals, valued at approximately $380,000, were recovered within 15 minutes of a report filed. Reports coming in say that about 2:10 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026, residents of Orchid Close, Old Braeton, Portmore, St. Catherine, observed a grey Toyota Axio entering the community. 

The occupants reportedly stole three doe goats valued at $210,000 and two rams valued at $170,000 before speeding away. Following the report, APB Area 5 personnel immediately launched an operation and recovered all five animals at approximately 2:25 p.m. on premises along Chambers Lane, St. Catherine. 

No one was found at the location, and the animals were subsequently positively identified by their owner. Preliminary information suggests that the area where the animals were recovered may be used to facilitate the illegal slaughter of stolen livestock. Investigations into the incident and any related activities are continuing.

Value of goods stolen declined 

This recovery forms part of the APB’s broader efforts to combat praedial larceny and protect the livelihoods of farmers and livestock owners. Year-to-date figures show that the value of goods stolen declined from $69.7 million in 2025 to $59.4 million in 2026, a decrease of $10.4 million or 14.8 per cent.

During the same period, the value of goods recovered increased sharply from approximately $3 million in 2025 to $13.5 million in 2026; an increase of $10.5 million or 349 per cent. These results reflect the impact of intelligence-led operations, rapid police intervention and increased cooperation from members of the public.  

The APB applauds the vigilance of the residents who promptly reported the incident and the decisive action of the Area 5 personnel. This successful recovery sends a clear message: praedial larceny will not be tolerated, and the APB remains committed to pursuing offenders and recovering farmers’ property.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is encouraged to contact the police emergency number at 119, the nearest police station or the Agricultural Protection Branch.