More employment means less crime

The opinion in the letter to the editor titled “How to bring the crime rate down” is food for thought. The writer believes that if everyone has a job then the crime rate will go down. I think this has some merit since a job would translate into money in the pocket which indirectly means the person would have less reason to commit a crime.

We are just talking about the numerous snatch thefts and break-ins that are reported daily in the media. These are preventable if everyone has an equal opportunity to have a decent wage instead of being sidelined by employers.

The official statistics might show the country has achieved almost full employment but more often than not ordinary folks are struggling to make ends meet especially those living in urban areas. The subsidies do help but it does not solve the basic problem of low wages compared to high daily living expenses.

The worst affected group are those ignored by employers even for menial jobs. They are the most likely candidate to try their hand at making a living from crime. The spate of physical attacks on the victims is a symptom of desperation to get whatever they can at whatever cost.

They have lost all considerations for the targeted victims as their main aim and ultimate goal is to get that handbag or anything of value on that person. The victim's struggle is a normal reaction from  anyone who has been surprised by an attack. Unfortunately the more the victim struggles, the more hard hearted and determined the robber would be. He changes to a totally different person in a split second and the victim gets the brunt of his outburst.

Yes, employment would definitely give at least some hope to those in dire situations. They would at least be assured that they will be able to afford their daily meals. Sad to say but employment would not be the solution to white collar crimes. That is another story.

Image from jonpackapproves