Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the younger brother of King Charles III, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office over his links to late US financier Jeffrey Epstein, according to a report by BBC News on Thursday.
The arrest marks the first time the former prince has been detained amid longstanding controversy surrounding his association with Epstein.
Newspapers earlier reported that six unmarked police cars and around eight plainclothes officers arrived at Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate in eastern England on Thursday morning.
Vehicles believed to be unmarked police cars were seen at Sandringham in Norfolk, where Andrew has been living since leaving his home in Windsor.
At the time of initial reports, it was unclear which police force had carried out the arrest.
Allegations under investigation
Earlier this month, Thames Valley Police said officers were considering allegations that Mountbatten-Windsor had passed confidential government documents to Epstein, according to files recently released by the US government.
Andrew, the second son of the late Queen Elizabeth II, has consistently and strenuously denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein. He has previously said he regrets their friendship but has not responded to requests for comment following the latest document release.
Police statement confirms arrest
Thames Valley Police later issued a statement confirming the arrest.
“As part of the investigation, we have today (19/2) arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk,” the statement said.
“The man remains in police custody at this time. We will not be naming the arrested man, as per national guidance. Please also remember that this case is now active so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court.”
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright added: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.
“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence.
“We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
The development represents a significant escalation in the legal scrutiny surrounding Andrew’s past association with Epstein.
While the royal has faced numerous allegations over his links to the convicted sex offender, this is the first time he has been formally arrested.
