Ex Prince Andrew Arrested at Sandringham as UK Police Move Intensifies Epstein Files Investigation
The British royal family has been plunged into unprecedented turmoil after Andrew Mountbatten Windsor was arrested on his 66th birthday as the long simmering Epstein Files were unsealed, according to the BBC. The dramatic development has sent shockwaves through the monarchy and reignited intense public debate about accountability and privilege at the highest level of British society.
King Charles younger brother has faced years of allegations connected to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, and this latest move marks the most serious legal escalation yet. Andrew Mountbatten Windsor was taken into custody on February 19, a date that coincided with his birthday, adding a grim symbolic twist to an already explosive situation.
Despite the arrest, Andrew has consistently and strenuously denied any wrongdoing. Sources close to the disgraced royal have previously insisted that he has never committed a criminal offence, and his supporters argue that he is being tried in the court of public opinion long before any legal conclusions are reached.
Police confirmed that the former prince is currently in custody and that officers are carrying out searches at multiple addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk. The operation was confirmed in an official statement released on Thursday, underscoring that the investigation has moved beyond preliminary assessment into a far more serious phase.
At present, it remains unclear which specific police force carried out the arrest or precisely where Andrew was detained. However, eyewitnesses reported seeing vehicles believed to be unmarked police cars earlier in the morning at Sandringham in Norfolk, where Andrew has been living since vacating his Royal Lodge residence in Windsor.
Further confirmation of the probe came when Thames Valley Police took to X to announce that an investigation had been opened into an alleged offence of misconduct in public office. The announcement immediately fueled speculation about the potential scope of the inquiry and what evidence investigators may now be pursuing.
The arrest has been widely linked to renewed scrutiny following the release of the Epstein Files, which have once again placed Andrew Mountbatten Windsor at the center of a global scandal. The files have revived questions about his past conduct, associations, and whether any actions taken during his time in public roles breached the standards expected of someone in such a powerful position.
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In their statement, police said that a man in his sixties from Norfolk had been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office and that searches were ongoing at addresses in both Berkshire and Norfolk. They stressed that the man remains in police custody while enquiries continue, signaling that the process is still at an early and sensitive stage.
Authorities also made clear that they would not be naming the arrested individual, citing national guidance. They urged the media and the public to exercise caution, warning that the case is now active and that irresponsible reporting could risk contempt of court during an ongoing investigation.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright addressed the matter directly, stating that following a thorough assessment, police had formally opened an investigation into the allegation. He emphasized the importance of protecting the integrity and objectivity of the inquiry as officers work with partners to establish the facts.
Wright acknowledged the significant public interest surrounding the case, noting that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor remains a figure of intense scrutiny due to his royal status and past controversies. He assured the public that updates would be provided at the appropriate time, but only when it would not jeopardize the investigation.
The arrest represents another deep blow to the monarchy at a time when it is already under pressure to demonstrate transparency and accountability. While the Palace has not yet issued a detailed response, the situation places renewed strain on King Charles III as he navigates the fallout from his brother’s actions.
For many observers, the sight of police activity linked to a senior royal marks a historic moment that could redefine public expectations of the institution. As the Epstein Files continue to unravel and the investigation progresses, the coming days are likely to bring further revelations that may reshape the royal family’s future.
