They took the 8 speed and the handlebars off my bike... I just don't understand how this can have more than a $10 resale value. At least I locked up my wheels and everything good, or for sure they would be gone.

Has the world gone crazy?  (The bike is a Shimano 8-speed.) They cut the tension cord in 2 spots... i'm not sure why they cut it near the derailer.... this is really just unexpected for me?  

Is there any way to protect the gears? It looks like the other one that remains is susceptible to just an allen wrench and wire cutters...