Initially, their actions were aimed at robbing the rich, with the distributed food genuinely benefiting the poor. Their rallying cry opposed collusion between government officials and merchants, harsh taxes, and the Imperial Court's exploitation of the common people. They sought to arm themselves and coerce the Imperial Court into negotiation, hoping for their demands to be met.
The movement gained traction, attracting more individuals who believed in their cause. However, what started as a fight for the commoners' benefit soon devolved into chaos.
No longer content with robbing the wealthy or acquiring food, gold, and treasures, they began targeting even ordinary citizens. Those who didn't willingly surrender their possessions faced violence. After brutalizing resistant homeowners, they still seized their belongings.