Secrets We Keep Lone Actor - Episode 1 - March 15
Jul 9, 2025
Aya al-Umari, a Christchurch resident and sister of a victim of the mosque attacks, shares her deeply personal account of the tragic events of March 15, 2019. She delves into the emotional chaos experienced by the community and reflects on the search for loved ones amidst the turmoil. The discussion unfolds to explore the motivations behind such extreme violence and the impact of social media in modern terrorism. Aya's insights shed light on the complex nature of trauma, resilience, and the need for understanding in the face of hate.
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Aya's Search After Attack
- Aya al-Umari learned of the Christchurch mosque attack suddenly while at work.
- She immediately left, searching through the city amid police presence to find her brother's safety.
Aya Faces Brother's Death
- Aya realized her brother Hussein was not among the injured after he failed to appear on the hospital list.
- She struggled with how to break the news of his death to her parents.
Questioning the Lone Actor Myth
- The Christchurch terrorist's manifesto suggested he was a lone actor radicalized during travels.
- However, the interconnected nature of far-right extremism challenges the lone actor narrative.