Let’s set the record straight, no one likes to be labelled a thief. But the practice of stealing is commonplace in modern society. We’ve seen countless reports of men, women and even children taking possession of other people’s money, property and
goods. And while there are laws in every country that seek to discourage stealing, there are some thieves who have spent years perfecting their practice, making it extremely difficult for the authorities to catch them.

In Jamaica, the practice of stealing is frowned upon and there are specific Patois expressions used to spot, name and shame the culprits.

Here are five Jamaican expressions to describe a thief.

1. ‘Tief’
Whether it’s a box of chocolate or a large sum of money, when a Jamaican calls you a ‘tief’, it simply means that you have very sticky fingers.

2.‘Con artis’
This can be translated to the English term, “con artist” or “con-man” which refers to an individual who tricks or cheats other people by attempting (often successfully) to convince them about something that isn’t true. Watch out because these thieves are
very calculated in their pursuit. They first gain your trust and then plot your demise or misfortune.

3.‘Tegereg’
A thief that has earned this label is now a hardened criminal. He or she may be well-known for robbery and other criminal activities. Therefore, it is never wise to use this Patois expression out of context, unless you’re prepared to be met with colourful
Jamaican words.

4. ‘Scamma’
This Patois word which translates to the English word, “scammer” rose to popularity around 2006, during the dawn of the lottery scamming culture in Jamaica. In most cases, the word is used to describe someone who is involved in the swindling of hard-
earned cash from unsuspecting people (usually those residing in the United States).

5.“Choppa”
This is a new word that came from Jamaican pop culture that has become part of the Jamaicn language. A choppa is a seasoned scammer. The term is even used to refer to theives who hold white collar jobs in the upper echelons of society. While it is mind-boggling how lottery scamming continues to sweep the Jamaican society especially among the younger generation, there are levels to this illegal business. If someone is referred to as a ‘choppa’, he or she might have gained extensive experience and skill in swindling money from innocent people. He or she may also have evidence of his or her ill-forgotten gains such as a luxury vehicle, a mansion and many, many suitors and fans. You’ll even hear the term in dancehall music as artistes have been using “choppa” to replace certain violent words, especially amid the ban that the Jamaican Broadcasting Commission has placed on certain negative words that promote violence within the society.

Theft is something that Jamaicans largely frown upon as majority of those who call themselves Jamaicans believe that there is honour in hard work and honest earning. Also, take steps to ensure you don’t become a victim of theft. Be on the alert, ask questions and where you detect unusual activity – especially in your bank account, report it immediately.

And maybe you have a special strategy to stay clear of thieves, care to share? Tell us in the comments section. While you’re at it! Subscribe to listsja.com so that you’re the first to be notified when we publish a fresh list on your favourite topics.