Conflicted Card Game: Week 42

Conflicted is a game which consists of multiple decks, each deck containing 52 cards, and on each card is a question. The setting is in an environment where some catastrophic event has occurred. Could be nuclear war, World War III, horrible disease, economic collapse, but regardless of the scenario, no form of government really exists or if it does it is unable to help you. No calling 911, no cell phones, no internet. Its just yourself, maybe friends and family, and possibly a small group of people who can help you. Not necessarily Mad Max/Post Apocalyptic, but cohesive civilization with modern technology at our fingertips is essentially over.

Every week I will post one of the cards (selected at random), and each participant writes a response to what they would do in that situation or how they might handle it. I will let the thread run for one week, and then post a new question. Post as much as you like after giving your response. Debating and analyzing is part of the game! I won't be playing as I am the one running the game.

There are no right or wrong answers as the game is about hearing how people could navigate a stressful or perilous situation.

Deck 1 - Downfall: Five of Hearts

Two women from outside your camp were caught trying to steal your supplies. They told you they are mothers with children and they needed the food. Your supplies will run out on a matter of days. You have nothing you could spare without harming your own group. A supply run would almost certainly cost lives. If you set the women free, you risk them trying again and maybe using deadly force. If you keep them as prisoners their children will most likely die. How would you handle this situation and why?