King Charles issued a brief statement on Thursday affirming the British royal family’s full support and cooperation following the arrest of his brother, Prince Andrew, at the Sandringham estate on his 66th birthday. Andrew was taken into custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a charge linked to his activities while serving as a trade envoy.

“I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor,” King Charles said, emphasizing that “the full, fair, and proper process” must now be followed by the authorities. “Let me state clearly: the law must take its course,” he added, while declining to comment further on the ongoing investigation.

Details of the allegations have not been publicly released, but they may be connected to Andrew’s appearance in a tranche of redacted documents from Jeffrey Epstein’s files. The files reportedly include photographs depicting Andrew in compromising situations, although the identities of others involved were kept private.

Also Read: Prince Andrew Arrested Over Misconduct in Public Office Tied to Epstein Files

Prince Andrew previously faced allegations from Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s victims, who claimed he had sexual contact with her when she was 17. Andrew settled a civil suit with Giuffre in 2022 for reportedly up to US$17 million, though he has consistently denied wrongdoing in any matter relating to the Epstein Files.

Reports indicate that the current arrest is unrelated to the Giuffre settlement, instead focusing on Andrew’s conduct as a trade envoy. Authorities are continuing to review evidence, and the royal family has pledged to cooperate fully with investigators.

King Charles concluded his statement by stressing the importance of due process, while reaffirming the royal family’s commitment to their public duties. “Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all,” he said, underscoring the monarchy’s focus on transparency and accountability during this legal matter.

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