The Rachman Review

Sanctions, global terror and the drugs trade

Aug 17, 2023

Investigative journalist Miles Johnson discusses the intricate links between international crime and geopolitics, including state-backed criminal groups, religious extremists involved in the drug trade, and the global reach of criminal networks. The podcast also explores encrypted messaging systems used by criminals, the security risks faced by journalists, and the connections between Italian criminals and the Colombian drug trade.

26:02

Creator website

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

The rise of state-backed criminal groups has blurred the line between criminal and state-backed enterprises, with authoritarian regimes becoming closely aligned with organized crime.

International crime is increasingly intertwined with the geopolitical aims of certain countries, facilitated by corruption and technology advancements, expanding its reach and impact.

Deep dives

The Rise of State-Backed Criminal Groups

The book explores the rise of state-backed criminal groups, reflecting a more fragmented geopolitical landscape. Organized crime in the 1990s was linked to the breakup of states like the Soviet Union and the Balkans. In recent years, these groups have become more closely aligned with authoritarian regimes, blurring the line between criminal and state-backed enterprises. Factors such as sanctions and the breakdown of state authority create opportunities for these groups to operate.

Introduction

2min

International Crime and Politics

7min

The Fascinating Career and International Connections of Moustafa Badar Adine

2min

Globalized Criminal Networks: Investigations and Connections

3min

Encrypted Messaging Systems and Transnational Criminal Organizations

11min

Journalist Security Concerns and Bravery Comparison

2min

Gideon talks to the FT’s Miles Johnson, author of a new book called Chasing Shadows about the links between international crime and geopolitics. They discuss how wars and the breakdown of democratic accountability have contributed to the ability of criminals to operate across borders and, in some cases, with state backing.

Free links to read more on this topic:

Wagner leader generated $250mn from sanctioned empire

Using crypto for crime is not a bug — it’s an industry feature

Ecuador gripped by fear after presidential candidate killing

North Korea and the triads: gangsters, ghost ships and spies | FT Film

Subscribe to The Rachman Review wherever you get your podcasts - please listen, rate and subscribe.

Presented by Gideon Rachman. Produced by Lulu Smyth and Fiona Symon. Sound design is by Breen Turner

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.