The Intelligence from The Economist
The Intelligence from The Economist
The Economist
The mob rule: criminality consumes South Africa
20 minutes Posted Sep 22, 2026 at 9:44 am.
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Show notes

An illicit shadow economy, rampant extortion and the capture of the criminal justice system: mafia members and tactics are eating away at the state. Oura seems to have captured the market for smart rings; we ask whether it can keep its lead finger-tight. And our correspondent finds convention upended, for good and bad, at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art.


Guests and host:

  • John McDermott, chief Africa correspondent
  • Shera Avi-Yonah, business correspondent
  • Alexandra Suich Bass, culture editor
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • South Africa, organised crime, criminal justice
  • wearable tech, Oura rings
  • Lucas Museum


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