Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the younger brother of King Charles, was arrested on Monday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, Thames Valley Police confirmed. The arrest coincides with his 66th birthday.

Police are conducting searches at multiple locations, including addresses in Berkshire, Norfolk, and the Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, where Andrew lived until recently. Unmarked vehicles were also spotted arriving at his Sandringham Estate home earlier today.

King Charles, who was reportedly not informed in advance about the arrest, released a statement expressing “the deepest concern” over the news and emphasizing that “the law must take its course.” Buckingham Palace also confirmed full support for the ongoing police investigation.

The investigation relates to allegations that Andrew, during his time as a trade envoy, shared confidential material with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Thames Valley Police stressed that the inquiry focuses on potential misconduct in public office rather than allegations involving Virginia Giuffre.

Legal experts noted that proving misconduct in public office requires meeting several conditions, including establishing that the individual knowingly abused their official position and acted without reasonable excuse. The arrest allows police to search Andrew’s properties and access relevant documents, files, and electronic equipment.

Despite the arrest, Queen Camilla and other senior royals continued with scheduled public engagements. Analysts say that while royal duties are ongoing, Andrew’s arrest is likely to dominate public and media attention in the coming days.

Thames Valley Police said the investigation followed a thorough assessment and cautioned that the case is active, urging care in reporting to avoid contempt of court.

With inputs from BBC