UK police appeal for witnesses in Prince Andrew probe; Epstein trafficking allegation under review

The allegations resurfaced after Florida-based lawyer Brad Edwards, who has represented multiple Epstein accusers, told the BBC earlier this year that he represented a woman who claimed she had a sexual encounter with Andrew at his Windsor residence after being trafficked by Epstein. Andrew has repeatedly denied wrongdoing in connection with allegations tied to Epstein.

Wider investigation

The latest appeal comes amid a broader and increasingly complex British investigation into Andrew’s past dealings and conduct during his tenure as the UK’s special trade envoy between 2001 and 2011. Authorities are examining possible offences including misconduct in public office, corruption, fraud and allegations of sexual impropriety, according to Reuters, The Guardian and The Times.

Andrew was arrested in February 2026 on suspicion of misconduct in public office after the release of documents connected to Epstein by US authorities. British police later released him under investigation. Investigators are reportedly reviewing whether Andrew shared confidential information with Epstein while serving as a trade envoy.

The investigation has widened following the publication of millions of pages of files linked to Epstein by the US Department of Justice. Several UK police forces are now examining allegations connected to the case.

Royal fallout

The controversy surrounding Andrew’s relationship with Epstein has deeply affected the British royal family in recent years. Andrew stepped back from royal duties in 2019 following public backlash over a BBC interview in which he denied allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s accusers. He later settled a US civil lawsuit brought by Giuffre in 2022 without admitting liability.