British police on Thursday confirmed that a man in his sixties has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, as UK media reports linked the case to Prince Andrew.
According to a statement carried by BBC, Thames Valley Police said: “As part of the investigation, we have today (19/2) arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk.”
Police added that they would not name the arrested individual, citing national guidelines.
Police Cars Seen at Sandringham Property
Earlier in the day, journalists published images showing unmarked police vehicles and plainclothes officers outside Wood Farm, a residence located on the Sandringham estate, shortly after 8 a.m.
UK media outlets reported that the property is associated with Prince Andrew. The Duke of York turned 66 on Thursday, the same day the arrest was confirmed.
Authorities have not officially identified the person taken into custody, but the presence of officers at Wood Farm intensified speculation.
Fresh Pressure Over Epstein Links
The arrest comes amid renewed attention on Prince Andrew’s past connections to convicted American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Recent document releases by the U.S. Justice Department have revived political debate in Washington. Lawmakers in the United States have once again called for Andrew to answer questions before Congress regarding his knowledge of Epstein’s activities.
UK Prime Minister Urges Cooperation
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in recent days that the royal should cooperate fully with U.S. authorities if requested.
Starmer stated that it would be appropriate for Andrew to testify in the United States regarding matters connected to Epstein’s crimes.
Meanwhile, King Charles III, Andrew’s elder brother, has not publicly commented on the latest developments.
Police Stress Integrity of Investigation
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright confirmed that a formal probe has now been launched.
“Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office,” Wright said.
He added:“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence. We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
Investigation Ongoing
At this stage, no charges have been announced. Police searches in Berkshire and Norfolk are continuing, and officials have urged the public not to speculate while inquiries are underway.
The situation has generated intense public and political attention both in the UK and abroad, especially given the renewed scrutiny surrounding Epstein-related files.
“As part of the investigation, we have today (19/2) arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk.” Police added that they would not name the arrested individual, citing national guidelines.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in recent days that the royal should cooperate fully with U.S. authorities if requested.
Starmer stated that it would be appropriate for Andrew to testify in the United States regarding matters connected to Epstein’s crimes.
Meanwhile, King Charles III, Andrew’s elder brother, has not publicly commented on the latest developments.
