Crimes and Criminal Behaviour – Basic 4 Security Education Lesson Note (Second Term)

What is Crime? 

Crime is any action that breaks the law. It is doing something that the government says is wrong and punishable.

What is Criminal Behaviour? 

Criminal behaviour is the way criminals act or things they do that show they want to commit crime.

Common Crimes in Our Society

1. Stealing (Theft) Taking what belongs to others. Shoplifting from stores. Pickpocketing. Breaking into houses.

2. Fighting (Assault) Beating people up. Bullying others. Using weapons to hurt. Causing injuries.#

3. Lying (Fraud) Tricking people for money. Fake products. False information. Internet fraud (419).

4. Destroying Property (Vandalism) Breaking windows. Writing on walls. Damaging cars. Destroying public property.

5. Kidnapping Taking people by force. Asking for ransom. Holding people against their will.

Criminal Behaviour to Watch For

Before the Crime

• Watching and planning
• Asking strange questions
• Following people
• Checking locks and doors
• Gathering in groups
• Covering their faces

During the Crime

• Using force or threats
• Running away quickly
• Working in groups
• Using weapons
• Being violent

Who are Criminals? 

• Anyone who breaks the law. 
• Can be young or old. 
• Can be male or female. 
• Can be rich or poor. 
• Can even be people we know.

Why Crime is Bad 

• People get hurt. 
• Property is lost. 
• Families suffer. 
• Community lives in fear. 
• Development stops. 
• Criminals go to jail.

How to Avoid Criminals

• Don’t go to lonely places
• Avoid bad friends
• Report suspicious people
• Don’t show valuables
• Stay with trusted adults
• Lock doors and gates

Remember: Crime doesn’t pay. Stay away from criminal activities and report any criminal behaviour you see!

EXERCISES

A. Fill in the blanks:

1. _______ is breaking the law.
2. Taking what belongs to others is _______.
3. Criminal _______ shows someone wants to commit crime.
4. _______ is tricking people for money.
5. Criminals go to _______.

B. True or False:

1. Crime is good. _______
2. Anyone can be a criminal. _______
3. Stealing is a crime. _______
4. Criminals plan before acting. _______
5. We should join criminals. _______

C. Match crime to description:

1. Theft a. Beating people
2. Assault b. Taking by force
3. Fraud c. Stealing
4. Kidnapping d. Lying for money

D. Circle criminal behaviours:

• Studying hard
• Following people
• Helping others
• Checking door locks
• Playing games
• Covering faces
• Reading books
• Gathering suspiciously

E. Answer:

1. What is crime?
2. Name 3 common crimes.
3. How can you avoid criminals?