WHY CRIME DOES NOT PAY
By Olusegun HOSEA
Proverbial Insight and Definition of Crime
The old philosophers among the Yorùbá race have proverbial expressions to support their thoughts, often saying that when fermentation is taking place, it does not affect only one person’s head. In other words, the impact of crime in our society concerns everybody, and it is important for us to tackle it with firm resolve. Crime is an activity carried out by an individual or group of people that is illegal and contrary to the rules and regulations of the Constitution of the land. Any violence committed or attempted within an environment that is inimical to the peace and tranquility of society is referred to as crime, and it must be dealt with in accordance with the laws of the land.
Government Policy and Rehabilitation Efforts
“Crime does not pay” is a slogan widely used by governments all over the world. In line with this belief, the Federal Government introduced a programme known as Operation Safe Corridor. This programme, according to the government, provides an opportunity for Boko Haram members and other terrorists to surrender their weapons and be reintegrated into society. For this reason, about 744 terrorists completed rehabilitation and were reintegrated into society, with forgiveness extended to them despite the many lives lost, villages destroyed, and people displaced as a result of their actions.
Moral and Biblical Perspective on Crime
However, the euphemism for theft is what philosophers refer to as kleptomania (Àdàpè olè ni ọmọ mi fẹ́wọ́), and the consequences of both actions should attract equal punishment. In the Biblical injunction, Revelation 13:10 (KJV) states: “He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword.” A similar statement is found in Matthew 26:52: “For all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.” These passages emphasize that punishment should correspond with the crime committed, regardless of the personalities involved.
Contradictions in Justice and Security Concerns
When the government chooses to deradicalize and reintegrate terrorists into society, despite the sacrifices of soldiers who fought to defend the nation’s territorial integrity—many of whom lost their lives—it may weaken the morale of those still serving. Such actions may appear as treating offenders with leniency rather than applying the principles of justice reflected in the scriptures. While the leadership may have its reasons, it is unfortunate that a security architecture once praised for maintaining peace in Liberia and other African countries during wartime is now perceived in its homeland as ineffective, like a toothless bulldog that cannot bite.
Causes of Crime: Unemployment and Idleness
Looking at the causes of crime in society, one is reminded of the saying that an idle hand is the devil’s workshop. When the government finds it difficult to establish industries and provide stable energy for businesses to thrive, job creation becomes a challenge. Many youths who are willing to work or engage in entrepreneurship often lack access to grants and startup capital. These challenges discourage able-bodied individuals from pursuing legitimate ventures, pushing some toward quick and illegal means of survival.
Poverty as a Driving Force
Poverty is another major factor driving people into crime. Many people today are extremely poor and struggle to meet their financial and social responsibilities. Feeding one’s family has become a serious challenge due to the prevailing economic hardship. As a result, some individuals resort to crime as an alternative means of survival.
Lifestyle and Financial Mismanagement
Living above one’s income and maintaining an extravagant lifestyle can also lead to criminal behavior. Some individuals fail to manage their limited resources wisely and instead try to imitate the lifestyles of others. In the end, they harm themselves through greed and false appearances. This pressure to maintain a fake lifestyle is one of the reasons some people resort to crime.
Social Background and Influence
Those who perpetrate crimes are often individuals from broken homes or those influenced by bad peer groups and gangs. Political thugs, bandits, and terrorists are all part of the growing insecurity in society. A focused and well-informed individual who understands the dangers and consequences of crime would likely avoid such destructive paths.
Types of Crime and Legal Consequences
There are many types of crime, including violence, war, riots that lead to destruction, arson, rape, street fighting, killing, destruction of farmlands, and vandalism, among others. All these acts attract punishment. Security agencies enforce the law by investigating crimes thoroughly, after which suspects are taken to court, where judges determine their guilt and deliver appropriate judgments.
Perceived Rewards and Dangerous Illusions
In another development, the reason crime is said not to pay is because of its consequences. The government prosecutes offenders when they are found guilty. However, in recent times, some individuals appear to benefit from criminal activities, especially when influenced by political actors who empower thugs. Some have acquired houses, cars, and sponsored their children’s education through such means, while others end up in police custody. These contrasting outcomes create a dangerous illusion that crime may sometimes pay.
Merits, Demerits, and Reality of Crime
This write-up has highlighted some perceived benefits of crime, such as connections to influential individuals, but the demerits far outweigh these advantages. Punishment remains the ultimate consequence for unlawful acts, serving as a deterrent to others.
Solutions and the Need for Justice
The response to crime should be proportionate to the severity of the offence. Those who kill should face the full weight of the law, as human life is irreplaceable. Since no one can create life, anyone who deliberately destroys it—such as terrorists and bandits—should be held accountable and face justice accordingly.
Conclusion and Reflection
In conclusion, the government’s approach to deradicalizing and reintegrating repentant terrorists raises important questions. Considering the experiences and arguments presented in this article, one may ask: does crime truly not pay, as widely proclaimed, or does it sometimes appear to pay due to certain government actions? The answer is left for you to decide. The ball is in your court.
