Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested amid renewed scrutiny over Epstein-linked allegations

13:30

By: Sahili Aya

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested amid renewed scrutiny over Epstein-linked allegations

British police on Thursday confirmed the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, on suspicion of misconduct and potential offenses related to his time holding public responsibilities.

According to UK media reports, officers arrived at his residence as part of an ongoing inquiry. Authorities had previously stated that they were reviewing evidence connected to disclosures emerging from documents widely referred to as the “Epstein files.”

A document issued by the United States Department of Justice and cited by international media indicates that in December 2010, Mountbatten-Windsor shared a briefing with the late American financier Jeffrey Epstein, who had been convicted of sex offenses. The briefing reportedly outlined potential high-value investment opportunities in Afghanistan during the period when Mountbatten-Windsor served as the United Kingdom’s special representative for international trade and investment.

The document referenced prospects in Afghanistan’s Helmand province, including the possible extraction of low-cost materials such as gold and uranium, as well as the potential presence of oil and gas resources.

The arrest came shortly after Buckingham Palace publicly stated it would fully cooperate with law enforcement should authorities make contact regarding the allegations.

Britain’s monarch, King Charles III, brother of Mountbatten-Windsor, has expressed readiness to support police as they assess claims that sensitive information may have been shared with Epstein. A palace spokesperson recently noted that the king had conveyed “deep concern” over the evolving allegations, both through public statements and private actions.

The spokesperson added that while responsibility for responding to the accusations rests with Mountbatten-Windsor himself, the palace stands prepared to assist Thames Valley Police if required.

In the same week, representatives of Kensington Palace said the Prince and Princess of Wales were “deeply concerned” by the newly released documents, emphasizing that their thoughts remain focused on the victims.

Mountbatten-Windsor has previously denied any wrongdoing in connection with his associations with Epstein. He has not issued a new public statement regarding the latest developments.