This article emphasizes the role of consumers in the cycle of crime by purchasing stolen goods such as car mirrors, batteries, and mobile phones, highlighting that such actions not only support criminal activities but are also punishable by law. It points out that the state has a duty to fight against crime, but that society also plays a crucial role in this effort. Academic studies referenced in the article underline that buying stolen items perpetuates cycles of violence, reinforcing the need for a collective societal response.

Legally, the act of buying stolen goods is known as "receiving" (receptación) under the Organic Comprehensive Criminal Code (COIP) of Ecuador, specifically detailed in Article 202. This article specifies that any person who hides, transports, sells, or otherwise deals with stolen goods without proper documentation faces imprisonment from six months to two years. This legal framework aims to deter the buying and selling of stolen items, reinforcing the message that the crime does not only involve the thief, but also those who purchase these items.

The article calls for greater awareness among the public regarding the impact of their consumer choices on crime rates. It stresses the importance of societal cooperation in addressing the issue of crime and suggests that by refusing to buy stolen goods, citizens can help cut off the demand that fuels these criminal activities. The interplay between consumer behavior and crime highlights the responsibility of individuals in fostering a safer community.