Episode #017 – Mary Harper – Three Decades on the Frontlines of Extremism in Africa

Mary Harper is a journalist, author, and expert on the Horn of Africa. Mary was until recently the BBC’s Africa Editor. She now works with the United Nations and continues to report on Africa. Mary has reported extensively on the Somali Islamist movement, Al Shabaab, and other insurgent groups on the continent. She is the author of the books Getting Somalia Wrong: Faith, War and Hope in a Shattered State and Everything You have Told Me is True: The Many Faces of Al Shabaab.

In this episode, we explore what life is like under Al Shabaab in Somalia, how terrorism and counter-terrorism efforts have evolved throughout Africa, and what this all means for the UK.

For regular insightful terrorism threat and risk information, as well as other Pool Re updates, please sign up to receive our emails at https://www.poolre.co.uk/signup/.

If you enjoyed this podcast episode, please subscribe on your streaming app of choice, and share so we can help build a better understanding of the terrorism threat to the UK.

Disclaimer: The views or statements expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the podcast does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Pool Re employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of Pool Re.

Disclaimer: The views or statements expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the podcast does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Pool Re employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of Pool Re.

Episode #016 – Superintendent Amanda King – Insights from the Head of NaCTSO

Please note, this episode was recorded on the 12th of December 2024, prior to Vehicle as a Weapon attacks conducted in Germany and New Orleans, US.

Superintendent Amanda King leads the UK’s National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) – a team of experts developing and sharing protective security advice as well as working directly with individuals, organisations and communities needing practical guidance and support to keep people safe. Drawing on her time in two different Forces, Amanda’s experience in protective security includes leading the London Counter Terrorism Security Advisers and working as a CT Security Coordinator; roles that saw her at the centre of both Operations London Bridge and Golden Orb – the funeral of the late Queen and the Coronation of King Charles. Her early career led her into intelligence before moving into counter terrorism and protective security. She is a passionate advocate for greater inclusivity in policing and the security profession and is proud to be a mentor for the next generation of talent.

In this episode, we explore Amanda’s distinguished 30-year career in the policing and counterterrorism space, her current role as the head of NaCTSO, as well as the incredible work they currently carry out. We also explore Amanda’s insights into how the policing and security industry has changed during her career, and the importance of diversity in these industries.

For regular insightful terrorism threat and risk information, as well as other Pool Re updates, please sign up to receive our emails at https://www.poolre.co.uk/signup/.

If you enjoyed this podcast episode, please subscribe on your streaming app of choice, and share so we can help build a better understanding of the terrorism threat to the UK.

Disclaimer: The views or statements expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the podcast does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Pool Re employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of Pool Re.

Episode #015 - Sohail Ahmed - A Former Extremist's Story

Sohail Ahmed is a former Islamist who was radicalised as a child. In his late teens he considered engaging in an act of violence in London. He subsequently underwent an intellectual journey which culminated in his self-deradicalisation. Sohail now works in the counter-extremism space and advocates for Islamic reform. He has appeared on multiple media outlets and has had his testimony presented in parliament.

In this episode, we speak to Sohail about his radicalisation journey, from his upbringing in East London to the point at which he considered carrying out a terrorist attack in the very same city. We also explore how Sohail went on to deradicalize, and his own thoughts on the current state of Islamist terrorism and extremism in the UK.

Listeners may find some language and themes discussed in this episode upsetting.

For regular insightful terrorism threat and risk information, as well as other Pool Re updates, please sign up to receive our emails at https://www.poolre.co.uk/signup/.

If you enjoyed this podcast episode, please subscribe on your streaming app of choice, and share so we can help build a better understanding of the terrorism threat to the UK.

Disclaimer: The views or statements expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the podcast does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Pool Re employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of Pool Re.