Former Prince Andrew, brother of King Charles III, was arrested and questioned for 12 hours in Norfolk, with searches continuing at his properties.
Police Confirm Searches
Police confirmed searches at former Prince Andrew’s current home, Sandringham, have concluded, but officers remain active at his former residence in Windsor. On Thursday, February 19, the younger brother of King Charles III was arrested and held for 12 hours at the police station in Aylsham, Norfolk.
Police emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and the former prince may be recalled for questioning at any time.
Government Documents Scrutinized
Following Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest on charges of public office abuse, the British government’s press office announced officials at 10 Downing Street began searching state documents related to his role as a trade envoy.
Officials are focusing on correspondence from 2010-2011, including reports from trips to Singapore, Hong Kong, and Vietnam, which were covered by official secrecy, as well as communications with the palace. All evidence related to the charge against the former prince is to be handed to the police.
King Charles III’s Statement
Experts on the British monarchy believe the arrest of former Prince Andrew could have serious consequences for the royal family and the institution itself. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, stripped of titles and privileges, has held no official functions for a long time, but his ongoing presence in royal structures means the case automatically reflects on the entire Windsor family’s image.
King Charles III assured the palace will fully cooperate with the police. His statement focused solely on the investigation and did not mention family ties to his brother.
Public Reaction at Buckingham Palace
Tourists, London residents, and dozens of television crews from around the world have gathered outside Buckingham Palace following reports of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest. This is the first case in modern history where such a high-ranking royal family member has been detained by law enforcement.
Some gathered people expressed surprise and anger. “It’s humiliating, frankly, for the country, for the nation, to have such a member of the royal family. He deserves punishment. I think if he did something wrong, he should pay the price. I thought he would wriggle out of it. I’m pleased,” said one woman. The former prince, at the center of attention in recent years due to Epstein-related documents, was arrested by police on charges of abusing public office. The investigation continues, with police examining suspicions of disclosing confidential information while the monarch’s brother served as a trade envoy.
