Thames Valley Police detained him on suspicion of misconduct in public office, an unusual charge for someone of his former status. The allegation centres on claims that he shared sensitive UK government information with the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his time as a UK trade envoy.
He spent nearly 11 hours in custody before being released under investigation. Officers are continuing to search properties connected to him in Norfolk as well as his former home, Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park.
The arrest follows the emergence of fresh material from the Epstein files, which has renewed scrutiny of his long-standing association with Epstein.
Tension at Royal Lodge
The repercussions of the arrest have extended beyond legal implications, carrying personal and symbolic weight.
At the time of his detention, Mountbatten-Windsor was in the process of being moved out of Royal Lodge — the large residence he had occupied for decades — to a smaller cottage on the Sandringham Estate. The relocation followed earlier palace decisions to strip him of his royal titles and official duties.