King Charles III has said “the law must take its course” following the arrest of his brother, Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.
Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The investigation is linked to newly released files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
King Charles Responds
On Thursday, King Charles continued with his official duties, attending an event during London Fashion Week. Reporters shouted questions about his brother’s arrest, but he did not respond verbally at the scene.
Later, he released a written statement saying he had learned of the news “with the deepest concern.” He added that the matter must go through a “full, fair and proper process” handled by the appropriate authorities.
“Let me state clearly: the law must take its course,” the King said. He also confirmed that the royal family would fully cooperate with investigators but would not comment further while the case is ongoing.
Why Andrew Was Arrested
Andrew, who had already stepped back from royal duties and lost his titles in recent years, is being investigated over allegations that he shared confidential government information with Epstein during his time as a British trade envoy.
One email reportedly shows him forwarding a “confidential brief” about investment opportunities in Afghanistan to Epstein. The email was included in a recent release of documents by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Police have carried out searches at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk as part of the investigation.
Past Allegations
Andrew has long faced scrutiny over his relationship with Epstein. He has denied wrongdoing in connection with allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual abuse when she was a teenager. The case was settled out of court in 2022 without an admission of guilt.
However, officials say the current arrest is linked to alleged misconduct in public office, not the previous sexual abuse claims.
Reactions in the U.K. and U.S.
Some Epstein survivors welcomed the arrest, saying it shows that powerful individuals can be held accountable.
In the United States, members of Congress are also examining connections between Epstein and high-profile figures. Lawmakers are expected to question former officials about their ties to Epstein in the coming days.
The investigation into Andrew’s case is ongoing. He has not been charged and continues to deny any wrongdoing.
