Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, the BBC is reporting.
Reports say that unmarked police cars were spotted this morning at Sandringham, where the former prince is currently living.
It’s the first time that Andrew, who is 66 today, has faced arrest since allegations emerged over his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
A statement shared by Thames Valley police with the outlet confirms: "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.
"The man remains in police custody at this time.
"We will not be naming the arrested man, as per national guidance. Please also remember that this case is now active so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court."
Earlier this month, British police confirmed they were examining claims that Andrew sent confidential trade reports to Jeffrey Epstein.
Andrew has always denied any wrongdoing.
Andrew, who is the brother of King Charles, was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office - but what exactly does this mean?
What is misconduct in public office?
According to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), misconduct in public office (MiPO) is a common law offence carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
It refers to a “wilful abuse or neglect of the power or responsibilities of the public office held.”
This is an offence that people in public office are accused of while performing their duties, or in office.
CPS also states the offence relates to wilful neglect, meaning the accused was “deliberately doing something which is wrong knowing it to be wrong or with reckless indifference as to whether it is wrong or not.”
According to the Institute for Government, 191 people were convicted of a MiPO between 2014 and 2024, most of whom were police or prison officers, as well as mid-level public officials.
Examples of MiPO charges in the past have involved incidents of sexual misconduct, corruption and information selling.
No royals have ever been charged with a MiPO, but former politician Peter Mandelson is currently under a criminal investigation by the Metropolitan Police for MiPO.
What happens next?
Andrew has been arrested on suspicion, meaning there isn’t a charge or conviction just yet.
According to Oliver Wright, the force’s assistant chief constable: “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 investigate this alleged offence.
“We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
Police have yet to publicly name Mountbatten-Windsor, and more details are likely to emerge over the coming days regarding the investigation.
Those accused of MiPO are usually released on bail pending completion of the police investigation and a charging decision.
