Head of Social Workers Association: Petty Theft Increased for Livelihood

The consequences of poverty in society are manifesting in various dimensions, and as reported by news sources, petty thefts for livelihood have increased to such an extent that ensuring public safety has become a difficult task. The head of the Social Workers Association has pointed out these issues arising from the events and crises, stating that a society experiencing poverty should expect an increase in crimes. Hassan Mousavi Chelak mentioned that 'the number of thieves has surpassed that of drug offenders' and stated that security measures cannot lead to a reduction in crimes, including theft. The website 'Didban Iran' also referred to the statements of Abolfazl Nikookar, head of the Social Affairs and Crime Prevention Department of the Tehran Judiciary, who said that for the first time in Tehran, 'the majority of convicts and defendants in Tehran's three prisons are thieves,' whereas this position was previously held by drug offenders. Mousavi Chelak emphasized that the increase in poverty and the diminished ability of people to cover their living costs are evident. He pointed out the increased pressure on people in various areas, including housing, food, health, treatment, and medicine, stating, 'The increase in taxes is another burden on the people.' The head of the Social Workers Association announced that financial support for families with fewer than five members is 750,000 tomans, and for families of five or more, it is two million tomans. This official's remarks indicate that recent official statistics show a rising trend in poverty rates and inflation, reflecting its impact on social conditions. Accordingly, statistics show that after 2018, with 'peak inflation rates' and rising poverty, the number of arrests of thieves has also been on the rise. The newspaper 'Donya-e-Eqtesad' has also reported that statistical analysis confirms the relationship between inflation and increased theft. According to reports from the Statistical Center of Iran over the past decade, from 2011 to 2021, the number of arrests for various types of theft has been increasing. Former police chief Hossein Ashtari also mentioned last year in a meeting with the president and members of the Society of Teachers of Qom Seminary that 'since 2018, when prices increased, theft rates also rose by 30%.' The deputy police chief of prevention in the capital confirmed the increase in petty thefts, stating that in lower city areas, thefts from metal sewage covers have increased, while in higher areas, thefts from properties have risen. The head of Tehran's Criminal Investigation Police emphasized that 'police investigations show that over 50% of the arrested individuals had committed a crime for the first time.' The economic crisis has led to the annual theft of 100 billion tomans worth of road equipment. Mona Farjad, after being attacked by thieves, stated that she felt the meaning of 'lack of security'; the police commander's claim was labeled 'false.' Reactions to the theft of an oil rig continue, with the oil minister stating it does not belong to Babak Zanjani.