- Prince Andrew has been arrested
- The palace responds as legal pressure mounts
- Epstein files and political repercussions resurface
A bombshell in the British royal family: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on his 66th birthday on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Earlier, investigators from Thames Valley Police searched his new home, Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate, as well as Royal Lodge in Windsor, where he had lived for many years. According to the Daily Mail, several civilian vehicles arrived at the property in Norfolk this morning, while an address in Berkshire was searched at the same time. Andrew is currently in police custody, and the investigation is ongoing.
King Charles Issues a Clear Statement On His Brother
In a written statement from Buckingham Palace, Charles III adopted an unusually firm tone. “I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office,” the statement reads, according to the BBC.
The monarch added: “What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities.” One sentence in particular stands out: “The law must take its course.” The King did not announce any further comment for the time being, stating that he intends to focus on his constitutional duties.
Epstein Connections and New Allegations Resurface
The arrest comes amid ongoing scrutiny related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. According to several British law enforcement authorities, including the Metropolitan Police, material from U.S. court documents is currently being reviewed. The National Crime Agency is assisting in evaluating and assessing the extensive evidence.
Political Reactions and Mounting Pressure
Political pressure is also increasing. In an interview with the BBC, Labour leader Keir Starmer stressed the importance of equality before the law: “They will conduct their own investigations, but one of the core principles in our system is that everybody is equal under the law and nobody is above the law.”
According to the Daily Mail, the Prime Minister would not stand in the way of a potential parliamentary debate regarding Andrew and the Epstein connections. Meanwhile, several police forces are examining newly released material from the Epstein files.
Andrew is also expected to be asked to testify before a U.S. congressional committee. He continues to deny all allegations.
