Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested and is currently in police custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
The arrest marks one of the most dramatic moments involving a senior member of Britain’s royal family in recent history.
Police Statement in Full
Thames Valley Police issued the following statement:
“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 man remains in police custody at this time.”
Although the statement does not name him directly, authorities have confirmed the individual is Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.
Searches at Royal Properties
Investigators are conducting searches at multiple locations linked to Andrew.
These include properties in Berkshire and Norfolk, as well as the Royal Lodge inside Windsor Great Park, where he had been living until recently.
Images circulating in British media show vehicles believed to be police units entering the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk earlier in the day.
The scale of the operation suggests investigators are treating the matter with seriousness.
King Charles Responds
King Charles III said he learned of the arrest “with the deepest concern.” He added that “the law must take its course.”
According to the BBC, neither the King nor Buckingham Palace were given advance notice before police carried out the arrest.
The palace has not issued further detailed comment beyond the King’s brief statement.
Link to Epstein Investigation
The arrest follows confirmation from Thames Valley Police that they were reviewing a complaint concerning the alleged sharing of confidential material by the former prince with Jeffrey Epstein, the late US financier and convicted sex offender.
The complaint reportedly relates to information that may have surfaced following the release of millions of Epstein-related documents earlier this year.
Andrew, who turns 66 today, has consistently denied any wrongdoing connected to Epstein in the past. He has not responded to media inquiries regarding these latest specific allegations.
What Happens Next?
Being arrested on suspicion does not amount to a charge. It means police believe there are reasonable grounds to question the individual while investigations continue.
Authorities are expected to review evidence gathered from the searches and determine whether formal charges will follow.
The development places renewed scrutiny on Andrew’s past role as a UK trade envoy and his association with Epstein, a relationship that has already significantly damaged his public standing in previous years.
For now, the investigation is ongoing.
