Prince William has broken his silence during his first public engagement since the arrest of his uncle, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, last week on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Thames Valley Police confirmed on Thursday (February 19) that the former Prince Andrew was taken into custody after unmarked vehicles arrived at his residence on the Sandringham Estate.
In a statement, the force said officers had detained a man in his sixties “on suspicion of misconduct in public office” and that searches were being conducted at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk.
Andrew was later released the same day, while enquiries continue.
The development has triggered the most serious controversy surrounding the Royal Family in decades, and William was asked about his wellbeing during an appearance at the Baftas on Sunday (February 22).
When a reporter asked whether he had seen the film Hamlet, the Prince of Wales replied: “I need to be in quite a calm state and I am not at the moment.”
Following news of the arrest, King Charles III released a statement saying he was deeply troubled by the situation.
He said: “I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office.”
“What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities.”
The statement continued: “In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course. As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter.
“Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all. Charles R.”
Speaking to Sky News, former UK royal protection officer Dai Davies said it was “inconceivable” that Andrew’s security team would not have been aware of any alleged misconduct if it occurred.
“Wherever he (Mr Mountbatten-Windsor) went, he would have had a team of protection officers and they would have been with him normally 24 hours a day,” Davies said.
“Clearly at night they’re not in the bedroom with him, but they’re nearby, so that in the event of an incident, they could act in accordance with their training.”
Police have been looking into a complaint linked to allegations that the former prince shared confidential information with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a trade envoy.
In recent years, Andrew has also faced claims from Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s accusers, who has alleged she was made to have sex with him in the early 2000s when she was 17.
Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing.