meaning of 'rise up' (Criminals rise up like worms inside dead wood.)

[Klpno]

Hello everyone
I'd like to ask about the meaning of "rise up" in the following passage:

"It's just that in times like these..." Rit took a moment to compose himself. "When disaster reigns, deceitful souls prosper. Have you noticed? Criminals rise up like worms inside dead wood. They come from below to hurt good people, for profit and for fun.

Does the phrase "criminals rise up" mean that criminals become active or does it mean that their number increases?

[Alan]

Hi,

'Rise up' in your context suggests come to the fore/become prominent/come out into the open.

Alan
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[Klpno]