Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has reportedly been arrested on his 66th birthday following a police operation at his residence on the Sandringham estate, according to reports first published by the Daily Mail.
Sources claim that neither King Charles III nor Buckingham Palace were notified in advance of the arrest.
The reported detention is said to relate to allegations of misconduct in public office. Police confirmed they are assessing a complaint involving the alleged sharing of confidential material with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
According to documents cited in coverage referencing the United States Department of Justice, emails suggest that the former duke circulated summaries of official overseas visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore. One message, dated November 2010, appears to show Mountbatten-Windsor forwarding information just minutes after receiving it from his then-special adviser, Amir Patel. Another email, reportedly sent on Christmas Eve 2010, allegedly included a confidential briefing shared with Epstein outlining investment opportunities connected to reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province.
This marks the first time the embattled royal has reportedly been placed under arrest, despite years of controversy surrounding his association with Epstein—allegations he has consistently denied.
BBC reported that officers arrived at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate at approximately 8 a.m. local time on Thursday. Reports indicate that several unmarked police vehicles and plainclothes officers entered the property through multiple access points.
Mountbatten-Windsor, who remains eighth in line to the British throne, could face severe legal consequences if formally charged and convicted.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright stated: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.
“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to examine this alleged offence. We recognize the significant public interest in this matter and will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
The duke had reportedly been residing at Wood Farm for several weeks after leaving Royal Lodge in Windsor amid renewed scrutiny over his past associations.
In a statement issued after news of the arrest broke, King Charles III said: “I have learned with the deepest concern of the situation involving Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and the suspicion of misconduct in public office. What follows now is the full, fair, and proper process by which this matter will be investigated by the appropriate authorities.
“They have our full and wholehearted support and cooperation. Let me be clear: the law must take its course. As this process continues, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further. My family and I will continue in our duty and service. Charles R.”
Thames Valley Police released a statement confirming that a man in his sixties from Norfolk had been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office and that searches were being conducted at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk.
The force did not publicly name the individual, in accordance with UK legal guidance, and emphasized that the case is now active. Authorities cautioned that reporting must avoid prejudicing ongoing proceedings.
