Turmoil The Official Autobiography, Neil Basu
Turmoil The Official Autobiography, Neil Basu
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Turmoil: The Official Autobiography
30 Years of Policing, Politics and Prejudice

Author: Neil Basu

Narrator: Neil Basu

Unabridged: 9 hr 52 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Publisher: Aurum

Published: 04/24/2025


Synopsis

'One of the most important books on policing and power. A must read.' Vikram Dodd, The Guardian

This is the official autobiography of Neil Basu, the man at the heart of modern British policing. Turmoil offers an urgent, insider account of power, racism and reform - and the realities of life in public service.

In Turmoil, Neil Basu, the first person of colour to serve as Assistant Commissioner in the Met, offers an unflinching look at the structural racism embedded in the UK’s justice system. From the aftermath of Stephen Lawrence’s murder to the London riots, Basu was there for the defining moments of modern policing, and now he’s telling the truth from the inside. 

With clarity, courage and compassion, Basu holds a mirror up to British policing, examining how racism, political interference and systemic injustice have shaped the force from within. This is a powerful contribution to Britain’s ongoing conversation on race, power and the state. Turmoil is essential reading for anyone interested in the realities of institutional racism and social justice in the UK, offering a vital new perspective on how we can move towards true accountability. 

Together, these insights form a compelling case for change, and act as a timely reminder that the work belongs to all of us. 

Reviews

Goodreads review by David on June 15, 2025

Neil Basu was the highest ranking officer of colour in the Metropolitan Police. This book is his account of his years of service. In the book he says that he had considered calling it "The Whitest One" but I wonder if he also considered calling if FIFO which he explains in Met shorthand for "Fit in......more

Goodreads review by CL VANHELFTEREN on May 18, 2025

heartfelt and brilliant If more were like Neil what a wonderful MET we would have. Heartbreaking in its honesty and personal sacrifice The prologue should be read to every new officer. I sincerely hope the current leadership at NSY also read it......more

Goodreads review by Daniel on May 11, 2025

I actually gave up on this book. It just doesn’t read very well at all. The author repeats himself constantly, and whilst the subject matter of prejudice is well tackled, his role as an officer plays little part in the book.......more

Goodreads review by Donna on May 21, 2025

Fantastic book with a really interesting account of the challenges faced within British Policing.......more


Quotes

"One of the most important books on policing and power. A must read."—Vikram Dodd, The Guardian

"A hard-hitting view of Britain's most controversial police force."—Martin Brunt

"Searingly honest."—Helen Fosper

"Will make even the most hardened cop pause."—Professor Barnie Choudhury

"The travails of modern policing by a man who’s seen it all at close quarters."—Cathy Newman

"A riveting insider’s account of modern UK policing."—Jonathan Bowman-Perks

"Neil Basu made my very short list of the best Commissioners the Metropolitan Police Service never had."—Lord Paddick

"Thoughtful and provocative."—Lord Levy