In a dramatic twist that has sent shockwaves through Britain, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office following early-morning raids on royal properties in Sandringham and Windsor.
Plain-clothes officers arrived at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate just after 8am in six unmarked police vehicles. The property, where Andrew had recently moved under discreet circumstances, became the focus of an intensive search operation.
A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police confirmed: “We have today arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The man remains in police custody at this time.”
Less than an hour after officers entered the estate, a convoy — including royal Land Rovers believed to be linked to Andrew — was seen leaving the grounds. His arrest was officially confirmed at 10.08am — on the very day he turned 66.
Detectives are also searching a second address in Berkshire, widely believed to be Royal Lodge in Windsor, where Andrew lived for over 20 years before relocating earlier this month
For the past ten days, investigators have reportedly been reviewing his conduct during his tenure as a UK trade envoy. Emails contained within the Epstein Files allegedly suggest confidential information may have been shared, including reports of official visits and potential investment opportunities.
Police are also re-examining claims linked to Virginia Giuffre, who alleged she was trafficked to the UK and forced into sexual encounters with Andrew. He has always denied the allegations and reached an out-of-court settlement in 2022 without admitting liability or issuing an apology.
Reacting to the arrest, Virginia Giuffre’s brothers said in a statement: “At last. Today, our broken hearts have been lifted at the news that no one is above the law, not even royalty.”
They continued: “On behalf of our sister, Virginia Roberts Giuffre, we extend our gratitude to the UK’s Thames Valley Police for their investigation and arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. He was never a prince. For survivors everywhere, Virginia did this for you.”
Later in the day, King Charles issued a carefully worded statement, saying: “I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office.”
He added: “Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.”
Buckingham Palace is understood not to have been informed in advance of the arrest, as the Royal Family faces one of its most serious crises in years.
