The police investigation into ex-Prince Andrew's former home, Royal Lodge, has officially concluded, marking a significant development in the ongoing probe into his ties with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. This comes less than a week after Andrew was arrested on his birthday, with authorities scrutinizing allegations that he shared sensitive trade secrets with Epstein.
Arrest and Search Details
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the 66-year-old former prince, was detained for 11 hours last Thursday as investigators meticulously combed through the 30-room Royal Lodge in Windsor, located west of London. He had resided at this property from 2004 until earlier this year before relocating to Wood Farm, a secluded cottage at King Charles' Sandringham estate in Norfolk.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright confirmed the end of the search activity in a statement on Tuesday evening, noting that officers have now left the Berkshire location. He emphasized the significant public interest in the case but stated that the investigation remains ongoing, with updates to be provided only when appropriate.
Allegations and Interrogation
The search concluded after Andrew was interrogated for 11 hours last week about his connections with Epstein, a convicted sex offender who died in his jail cell in August 2019. According to emails released by the U.S. Justice Department, Andrew is accused of sharing government reports with Epstein while serving as a trade envoy. These reports followed trade visits to Vietnam, Singapore, and China in 2010.
Additionally, Andrew is alleged to have tipped off Epstein to investment opportunities in gold and uranium in Afghanistan. In a related development, the British government announced it will not oppose the release of documents pertaining to Andrew's appointment as the country's trade envoy.
Royal Fallout and Political Ramifications
Andrew saw his royal titles stripped by his brother, King Charles, last October amid growing controversy over his links to Epstein and shocking revelations in Virginia Giuffre's posthumously published memoir, which accused him of sexual misconduct. Meanwhile, in a parallel investigation, former Labour Party minister Peter Mandelson was arrested on Monday as police probe his ties with Epstein while he served as business secretary.
Mandelson, 72, was brought in for questioning after emails between him and Epstein were made public, with allegations that he shared market-sensitive information. He has been released on bail pending further investigation, according to police statements.
This case continues to unfold, highlighting the far-reaching implications of the Epstein scandal on both royal and political figures in the United Kingdom.
