Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested LIVE updates: Former prince returns to Sandringham estate after being in custody for 11 hours; police ask protection officers what they ‘saw or heard’
Sydney Morning Herald
by Ashleigh McMillanFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The shock arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, a former British prince and brother of King Charles, has sent shockwaves through the royal family and sparked widespread media coverage. After spending 11 hours in custody, Andrew returned to his Sandringham estate, but the fallout from the incident continues to unfold. Thames Valley Police confirmed that while no charges have been filed against him, their investigation into his ties to Jeffrey Epstein—a convicted sex offender—remains ongoing. This development has reignited calls from British politicians to remove Andrew from the line of succession due to his disgraced reputation.
Following his release, police shifted focus to questioning Andrew’s former protection officers about what they “saw or heard” during their time serving him. The Metropolitan Police released a statement urging these individuals to consider any relevant information that could assist their ongoing reviews. Unmarked vans believed to be police vehicles were spotted at Royal Lodge in Berkshire, where Andrew once lived, with officers conducting visits throughout Friday morning.
The arrest has drawn significant attention from the media, with Reuters capturing a viral image of Andrew leaving Aylsham police station in Norfolk, appearing visibly shaken and slumped in the backseat of his Range Rover. The photograph, taken by Reuters photographer Phil Noble, highlights the unprecedented nature of treating a senior royal as a common criminal. Noble described the moment as a mix of planning and luck, emphasizing the unpredictability of such events.
The situation has also raised questions about public trust in institutions, particularly given Andrew’s connections to Jeffrey Epstein and his previous role as a prominent figure within the British monarchy. As police continue their investigation and media outlets report on the developments, the implications for both the royal family and the justice system remain significant. The case underscores the challenges of balancing privacy with accountability, especially for public figures.
Ultimately, this story matters because it reflects broader concerns about power, accountability, and justice. Andrew’s arrest has sparked debates about the monarchy’s role in modern society and the need for transparency. As
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/20/2026