Carlsen Field farmers say they have been at the mercy of criminals for the past few months.
They said just last week, criminals invaded the residence of Shiraz Khan, a prominent agriculture activist and President of the Trinidad and Tobago Farmers Union.
During this incident, which occurred just after 5 am, Khan’s wife was confronted by four assailants who forcibly entered their home and proceeded to leave with valuable possessions.
Khan said he had left for the mosque before the incident occurred and was shocked to learn his wife went through such an ordeal.
“Thank God she was safe and unharmed. They threatened to cut off her finger for the rest of the money,” he said.
Farmers said yesterday the community was besieged by a spate of robberies. Farmers and residents in the area have voiced their frustration and demanded more action from the police and praedial larceny squad.
One farmer, who was robbed twice, said he is willing to give up to protect his family and farm, as it takes a lot of money.
He recalled one of the incidents, “The men came asking for work, and I told them that I am not hiring. Within minutes, guns were out, and I was forced to hand over my valuables. It’s getting worse, as criminals are not just focusing on animals anymore, but now robbing farmers.”
Khan said he was not happy with the response of the police.
“What hurts me the most is that the police came, the crime scene investigators came, and until now, the police have not returned because my wife could not speak to them as she was traumatised. She has no official police statement taken,” he said.
He also criticised the praedial larceny squad.
“They’re not doing anything for us now. If there were patrols, it could deter crime. The criminals will continue to break into houses since nobody is investigating and dealing with them,” he added.
Officers from the Freeport Police Station said the incident is being investigated. Chaguanas police officers are also probing the robberies.
Guardian Media was informed by the praedial larceny squad that it had noticed the incidents. It added extra patrols will soon be increased.