Theft can be stopped when the punishments prescribed in the Islamic Shariah are implemented.

[As for] the thief, the male and the female, amputate their hands in recompense for what they committed as a deterrent [punishment] from Allah . And Allah is Exalted in Might and Wise. (Al-Maaidah)

This is what Allah commanded to do with regard to those who steal. The punishments in Maldivian penal code for thieves actually violates the right of the person as the convicted thief is incarcerated for a long period. That also incurs a financial burden on the state. Imprisoning often does not lead to a corrective behavior. This can be proven from the records of repeat offenders. 

Theft is increasing in the society. Large safes in offices are being stolen. Often the money is never recovered. Some vehicles that are used to transport cash to the bank are also hijacked and the money is stolen. 

Even though we claim to be muslims we do not have Islamic traits. The law of the land is not in accordance with the Islamic Shariah. Our actions are not in a way that is exemplary to others. If we want to save Maldives from this situation then implementing Allah’s law is the first thing that should be done. 

Note : This article is based on a lecture given by Sheikh Mansoor.