‘Been a long time coming’: Andrew was the only one stunned by his arrest
Sydney Morning Herald
by David CroweFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, also known as Prince Andrew, has sparked widespread public reaction, with many questioning why it took so long for authorities to act. British visitors to London expressed both relief and frustration over the news, noting that his涉嫌行为早就应受到 accountability. The former prince was detained earlier this week on suspicion of misconduct in public office following years of allegations tied to his connection with Jeffrey Epstein, including a notorious photograph showing him with Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who accused him of sexual assault.
The arrest comes after decades of speculation about the royal family’s handling of Mountbatten-Windsor’s affairs. Critics argue that he was shielded from scrutiny for far too long, particularly during his time as the UK’s special representative for international trade and investment. This role, combined with his royal status, allowed him access to foreign leaders, diplomats, and business executives, which has now come under intense scrutiny.
The police searched Mountbatten-Windsor’s properties in Windsor and Sandringham, and while he was released without charges after 11 hours of detention, the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are focusing on his alleged misuse of his position to facilitate Epstein’s network, including forwarding sensitive information to the disgraced financier. This has raised questions about how Epstein built a powerful influence network, involving not only Andrew but also former political and business leaders like Peter Mandelson.
The case highlights the broader implications of Epstein’s connections and the potential fallout for the monarchy’s reputation. As details emerge about Mountbatten-Windsor’s involvement in Epstein’s schemes, public interest in the royal family’s handling of such scandals is likely to grow. The situation underscores the need for transparency and accountability, not just for Andrew but for the systems that allowed his behavior to go unchecked for so long. This story matters because it reveals how power and privilege can be misused, raising important questions about justice and the integrity of institutions globally.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/20/2026