The Intelligence from The Economist

Grand theft global: the business of street crime

40 snips
Aug 26, 2025
Tom Sass, Britain Public Policy Editor at The Economist, uncovers the dark side of car and phone theft, revealing how these petty crimes have evolved into a global enterprise. He discusses the challenges law enforcement faces against sophisticated thieves exploiting modern technology. The conversation also touches on the impact of consumerism on crime rates and the emerging trends in private chefs catering to the elite, reshaping culinary choices in affluent circles. Expect insights into the intersection of crime, economy, and personal life decisions!
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ANECDOTE

Port Visit Reveals Stolen SUVs

  • At Felixstowe port Tom Sass toured the giant marquees and cranes with Adam Gibson looking for cars hidden for export.
  • Gibson showed shiny stolen SUVs and explained thieves stash cars in containers to ship abroad fast.
INSIGHT

Local Theft Powers A Global Supply Chain

  • Stolen cars and phones feed a global export supply chain that ships goods to Africa, the Gulf and China.
  • Britain has become a hub for this 'Grand Theft Global' because of saturated markets and weak export checks.
INSIGHT

Why Britain Became A Theft Hub

  • London combines wealth, organised crime and weak policing, making it fertile for criminal innovation.
  • The police solve only about 5% of crimes and 2% of vehicle crimes, reducing deterrence for thieves.
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