Cry Against Crime: My Heart Bleeds to the Marrow

My heart bleeds when I see young men and boys, from the age of 18 and above, involving themselves in stealing, kidnapping, armed robbery, and even killing innocent people—sometimes after collecting ransom from their victims’ families.

Laziness, greed, jealousy, impatience, and the desire to get rich quickly are some of the things that push people into such foolish, shameful, and dangerous activities.

Recently, some men were arrested in Anambra and Imo States respectively for allegedly involving themselves in car robbery, kidnapping, goat theft, and other forms of robbery. Why? Why would young men choose such a destructive path?

Yes, things are difficult and hard nowadays, and many families are struggling to survive. But even in difficult times, there are legitimate things one can do to earn a living while retaining one’s dignity, honour, and self-respect.

Honestly, I lack words whenever I see men who are supposed to be responsible members of society involving themselves in criminal activities. It is heartbreaking and shameful.

Sadly, we also have people who steal public funds and misuse their positions in high places. Some of them are not arrested, disgraced, or removed from office. We condemn their actions, but it often seems that nobody listens to the cries of ordinary people.

However, this should never be an excuse for anyone to become a robber, kidnapper, car snatcher, or killer. Two wrongs can never make a right.

To all those involved in robbery, kidnapping, car snatching, and other criminal activities, please stop and think about the consequences of your actions.

The people you rob are also struggling. The family whose car you steal may have worked for years to acquire it. The person you kidnap has a family that loves and depends on them. The money you demand as ransom may come from people who have to sell everything they have just to save a loved one.

Kidnapper, how do you feel eating money obtained through another person’s pain and suffering? How do you enjoy the money when you know that someone else is crying because of it?

Please, choose a better path. Work your way out through legitimate means.

Learn a trade. Start something small. Do honest work. There is dignity in labour, no matter how small the beginning may seem.

And to those in positions of authority who steal from the people they are supposed to serve, remember that accountability applies to everyone. Whether the crime is committed on the street or in an office, wrongdoing remains wrongdoing.

As Christians, we should remember that God sees everything we do. The Bible tells us in Genesis 6:6–7 that God was grieved by the wickedness of mankind. We should therefore examine ourselves and ask: What kind of society are we building for the next generation?

Life is difficult, but criminality is not the answer.

To the young men and women of our society: Please, choose hard work over crime, integrity over greed, and dignity over quick wealth.

May God touch the hearts of those involved in criminal activities and give them the courage to turn away from evil and choose a better path.

My heart truly bleeds—to the marrow.