FBI agents are poised to arrest at least four people alleged to have groomed underage girls for Prince Andrew’s paedophile friend Jeffrey Epstein, a legal source said.
But the insider said Andrew was not among the suspects.
One of Epstein’s alleged victims Virginia Giuffre has claimed the financier “trafficked” her to the Duke of York and she had sex with him when she was 17.
The prince, 59, has called the claims “false and without foundation” and said he was “appalled” by Epstein’s alleged crimes.
It was revealed US prosecutors believe they have enough evidence to arrest former aides of the US tycoon, 66.
The source said: “They are ready to ask a judge to issue arrest warrants which will, I understand, be acted on immediately.
“The FBI is targeting those suspected of being involved specifically in the recruitment of underage girls in America, Britain and even Brazil.”
If convicted, they could face life behind bars.
The insider added: “I doubt any will be offered the opportunity of a plea bargain deal based on the gravity of the offences and high profile of this case.
But some could be handed less severe sentences if they cooperate.
“Who knows how far up the food chain this investigation will eventually go? I have no doubt there will be less significant players willing to drop the hammer on those above.”
Giuffre, 35, is one of several women who claim Epstein abused them.
He was found hanged in his cell in August while awaiting trial.
His brother Mark says he could have been murdered.
