Date: April 8, 2009

Photographer: British photographer Steve Back, from the European Pressphoto Agency

Details: The story of the photograph begins with the arrival of Bob Quick, Head of Counter-Terrorism, at the residence of then British Prime Minister Gordon Brown for a meeting to discuss security matters. As Quick exited his vehicle, he inadvertently revealed a highly classified document that was captured by the photographers present at the scene. Using telephoto lenses, the document was revealed to be a security plan known as “Operation Pathway,” aimed at thwarting a planned attack by al-Qaeda operatives, including several suspected immigrants. The plan detailed several sites and targets to be raided in the cities of Manchester, Liverpool, and Lancashire, along with the names of senior officers involved in the operation.

Moments after the photograph was taken, it was published online, prompting the British government to act swiftly by imposing a media blackout on the document’s content. The Counter-Terrorism Unit then executed the operation hours ahead of schedule, involving hundreds of officers in the raids. All twelve suspects were arrested, and Prime Minister Gordon Brown later confirmed that it was a major terrorist plot, emphasizing that security agencies had been monitoring it for some time.

The publication of the photograph drew significant criticism, primarily targeting Bob Quick. This led to his resignation and an apology for the security breach, which he acknowledged could have jeopardized a major operation and caused disruption for his colleagues. Despite the criticism, some praised Quick for his efforts during his tenure. The Chairman of the Police Federation commended Quick, stating that he had led several critical counter-terrorism operations and that public safety had benefited from his work. Boris Johnson, then Mayor of London, also expressed his reluctance and deep regret over Quick’s resignation.