By Celestine Chacon
February 12, 2025
The remaining squatters at Mocha Arcadia/Caneview have been ordered by the court to pay the state two million dollars in costs after failing to establish a legal claim to the land. This ruling was delivered by Acting Chief Justice Roxanne George.
Following the decision, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, reaffirmed the government’s legal authority over state lands.
He highlighted that the squatters had received multiple eviction notices since 2008, with additional warnings issued in 2021.
While over 150 residents had relocated with government assistance, a small group remained, allegedly influenced by the political opposition.
The Attorney General emphasized that the government had compensated squatters with $250 million, provided titled lands with houses, and assisted with relocation.
He also criticized the Opposition Leader for not offering support to those affected by the ruling, stating that the residents had been misled and left without assistance.
Nandlall further urged citizens occupying government reserves and state lands to take note of the ruling’s implications.
He clarified that those illegally residing on public lands have no legal claim, title, or interest, and that the state has the authority to remove them without liability.
The Attorney General cautioned the public against becoming entangled in politically motivated disputes over state lands, stressing the importance of compliance with legal land policies.