Theft has been an ancient profession in the subcontinent. Perhaps the reason lies in the abundance of “opportunities” for theft here, which, when exploited, has elevated stealing into something of an art.
Francis Bacon once said, “A thief is made perfect only by a good opportunity.” In other words, once given the chance, a thief does not hesitate. Following the recent political shifts, we are witnessing just that.
During this turbulent period, law and order across the country has deteriorated. Taking advantage of the situation, thieves and robbers are striking more often. They are no longer limiting themselves to stealing cattle from cowsheds—they are also taking fish from ponds, rice and wheat, construction materials, goods from shops, crops, and even pets and birds.
According to media reports, police have received complaints of some 7,000 stolen domestic animals in the past 11 months. These crimes are being carried out with astonishing professionalism and precision. Not only trucks, but even private cars are being used for cattle theft, and such incidents have been witnessed firsthand.
In many cases, thieves break locks or chains on doors at night to steal livestock. In farms, herdsmen have been tied up during robberies. And it is not only theft—many incidents have also led to injuries and fatalities, particularly in remote chars and wetland areas.
Data from the police headquarters shows that in January this year, 797 theft cases were recorded. In February, 673 cases; March, 866; April, 715; May, 765; and June, 722. In August 2024, the month of the government change, the number of theft cases was 381. But afterward, the numbers began to soar.
To tackle this situation, there is no alternative but to make law enforcement more active. The police and other agencies are working “as best as they can,” according to their own statements.
But in reality, they seem less visible on the ground than before, a gap that criminals are exploiting. The army is engaged in maintaining order as well, but given how grim the overall environment has become, it is undeniably difficult for the army alone to bring the situation under control.
Political instability and unrest may be expected in such times, but the current reality feels harsher than ever. Incidents are happening that were unthinkable only months ago. At one point, even manhole covers had stopped being stolen, and law enforcers roamed everywhere freely.
But those days seem gone—now, it is the criminals who appear to control the streets. Many thefts, robberies, and muggings are taking place right in front of the police, who remain passive, as if they are helpless spectators with nothing to do. If this culture is not broken, society cannot move forward. The safe, fear-free environment people long for will remain out of reach.
Therefore, alongside the law enforcement agencies, a social resistance must be built against theft, robbery, and crime. In truth, there is no alternative to the police—past or present realities prove this. They must be supported in every possible way. Above all, fear must be removed from society.
Today, people are even afraid to protest. If this fear is overcome, opportunities for theft and robbery will shrink, and people will be more willing to resist. Creating such a safe and confident social environment is more urgent today than ever.
