BREAKING NEWS: Andrew Mountbatten- Windsor 'arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office' in connection with Jeffrey Epstein files - police searches underway in Norfolk and Berkshire

ANDREW Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office this morning, Thursday February 19 2026, on his 66th birthday.

Officers from Thames Valley Police, which is investigating issues around allegations of sharing information with the late Jeffrey Epstein while Mr Mountbatten-Windsor was UK Trade Envoy, arrived at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk in six unmarked vehicles today.

Mr Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing in connection with his relationship with Epstein.

A Thames Valley Police spokesman said: "Today we have arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and we 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 man as per national guidance."

Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “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.” 

In UK law, an arrest requires police to have reasonable grounds to suspect an offence has taken place and reasonable grounds for believing that it is necessary to arrest the person in question.

It comes after police carried out searches of addresses linked to Peter Mandleson in relation to similar allegations regarding the Epstein files.

The former Prince Andrew was stripped of his royal and other titles due to earklier allegations around his relationship with Epstein, who died while in custody in New York awaiting trial for sex trafficking offences in 2019.

More to follow on this breaking story.