British authorities arrested Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Prince Andrew, on Monday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, as part of an ongoing probe into his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, police said.
The 66-year-old was taken into custody in Norfolk, with searches underway at his properties in Berkshire and Norfolk, according to Thames Valley Police.
A force spokesperson confirmed the detention: “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 man remains in police custody at this time.”
The spokesperson added: “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 emphasized the inquiry’s thoroughness: “The force is conducting a thorough investigation and emphasised protecting its integrity amid significant public interest.”
The case revolves around claims that Mountbatten-Windsor shared sensitive information from his role as a UK trade envoy with Epstein, alongside allegations of a sexual encounter facilitated by the financier.
Mountbatten-Windsor, stripped of his royal titles in 2022 amid a US civil suit over Epstein links, has repeatedly denied wrongdoing. He settled that case out of court without admitting liability.
King Charles III formally removed his “prince” status last year and evicted him from Windsor amid the scandal.
The royal family and Mountbatten-Windsor’s representatives offered no immediate comment on the arrest.
