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Atrocities, Diamonds and Diplomacy: The Inside Story of the Conflict in Sierra Leone
Contributor(s): Penfold, Peter (Author)
ISBN: 1781591059     ISBN-13: 9781781591055
Publisher: Pen & Sword Military
OUR PRICE:   $22.46  
Product Type: Paperback - Other Formats
Published: April 2013
Qty:
Temporarily out of stock - Will ship within 2 to 5 weeks
Additional Information
BISAC Categories:
- History | Military - Wars & Conflicts (other)
- History | Africa - West
- History | Modern - 20th Century
Dewey: 966.404
Physical Information: 0.7" H x 6.1" W x 9.1" (0.95 lbs) 224 pages
Themes:
- Chronological Period - 1990's
- Chronological Period - 21st Century
- Cultural Region - West Africa
 
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc.
Publisher Description:
In early 1997 Peter Penfold, arrived in Sierra Leone as the British High Commissioner. This fascinating book describes not just his eventful three-year tour but the background and subsequent events that placed this small country at the center of the world stage.

During his tour, he found himself as right hand man to the country's beleaguered President Kabbah. Due to rebel actions, including shocking atrocities, the Author had to not only evacuate the international community (twice) but was forced out himself. At times, he flew in daily from British warships, as the situation was dangerously unstable.

We learn how almost immediately after being praised by Prime Minister Tony Blair for his pivotal role in getting this once rich country back on its feet, he found himself under Customs and Excise investigation and Parliamentary Committee scrutiny for his supposed role in the 'Arms for Africa' Enquiry. While reprimanded by the FCO, he was feted and made a Paramount Chief by the Sierra Leone people.

He describes how, after his tour was cut short despite his and the host Government's appeals, the situation again deteriorated. He gives a highly informed account of the subsequent events including the SAS Operation BARRAS - the rescue of the British military hostages. This is a very important account based on the most privileged knowledge.

Contributor Bio(s): Penfold, Peter: - Peter Penfold CMG OBE enjoyed a hugely successful diplomatic career. He retired shortly after his standing down as High Commissioner but is a frequent visitor to, and well respected figure in Sierra Leone. He testified at UN Sierra Leone War Crimes Court. He lives at Abingdon and is available for interview.