The officer concerned reported the incident to his superiors and the official police log, which appeared to contradict Mr Mitchell's story, was later leaked to the media.

BBC: Andrew Mitchell

Nunca Mais contends that the former official executed orders from government superiors, which forced the stricken ship out to high seas, instead of letting it take refuge in a port to try to contain the damage, Sanchez said.

CNN: SHARE THIS

Thus to the extent that any official might cross a line into activities where he could pose a security risk, his superiors and colleagues are the first to know.

FORBES: The Petraeus Affair and the Risk of Blackmail: Another Nail In America's Coffin