Police Launch Urgent Appeal to Andrew's Former Protection Team
The Metropolitan Police have issued a direct appeal to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's former close protection officers, urging them to come forward with any information they may possess regarding the ongoing investigation into paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein and his extensive network of associates.
International Cooperation and Airport Investigations
In a significant development, the Metropolitan Police confirmed they are actively collaborating with American law enforcement agencies to determine whether London's major airports were utilized to facilitate human trafficking and sexual exploitation activities. This international cooperation represents a substantial escalation in the scope of the investigation.
The police statement emphasized that despite the recent release of millions of pages of documents related to Epstein by the US Department of Justice, no new reports of alleged sexual offences have been made to London authorities since the document disclosure.
Arrest and Ongoing Investigations
This appeal follows Andrew's dramatic arrest on Thursday, February 19, 2026, on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The former royal was detained in custody for approximately eleven hours before being released under investigation, marking an unprecedented moment in modern royal history.
Police are specifically examining allegations that Andrew's protection officers may have deliberately ignored or turned a blind eye to his visits to Epstein's private Caribbean island, Little St James. However, authorities have clarified that no wrongdoing has yet been identified among the close protection officers themselves.
Accusations and Denials
The investigation continues to center around allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, Andrew's primary accuser, who claims she was forced to have sex with him during an orgy involving underage girls on Epstein's island. Andrew has consistently and vehemently denied all allegations made against him throughout the investigation.
In their formal statement, police detailed their approach: "The Met is identifying and contacting former and serving officers who may have worked closely, in a protection capacity, with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. They have been asked to consider carefully whether anything they saw or heard during that period of service may be relevant to our ongoing reviews and to share any information that could assist us."
Property Searches and Global Attention
Extensive searches have been conducted at Andrew's former residence, Royal Lodge in Windsor, Berkshire, following his arrest. The investigation has drawn global media attention, particularly after images circulated showing Andrew appearing exhausted and drained while leaving Aylsham police station.
Thames Valley Police, who are leading the misconduct investigation, have not yet received preliminary legal guidance from the Crown Prosecution Service regarding the allegations. The arrest stemmed from claims that Andrew may have shared sensitive government information with Epstein during his tenure as the UK's trade envoy.
Police maintained a visible presence at multiple locations throughout the investigation, including the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, where searches concluded on Thursday. Unmarked vehicles believed to be police transport were observed entering the grounds of Royal Lodge throughout Friday morning, with a helicopter circling overhead.
The Metropolitan Police reiterated their commitment to thorough investigation, stating: "As of today, no new criminal allegations have been made to the Met regarding sexual offences said to have occurred within our jurisdiction. We continue to urge anyone with new or relevant information to come forward. All allegations will be taken seriously and, as with any matter, any information received will be assessed and investigated where appropriate."
