What in the World, What in the World, How big a deal is Andrew being arrested?

What in the World

What in the World

How big a deal is Andrew being arrested?

20 February 2026

9 minutes

Available for over a year

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor - formerly known as Prince Andrew - has now been released under investigation, after he was arrested on Thursday (on his birthday!) on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

Police are looking into allegations that the former prince shared official documents with the late American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Police have been searching his properties, but this arrest is not related to any sexual offences and Andrew has always denied all wrongdoing. It’s still a significant moment, as the first time in modern history that a senior member of the British Royal Family has been arrested. His brother, King Charles, has said in a statement, “the law must take its course”.

In this episode, we explain what Andrew is being investigated for, what it might mean for the future of the British Royal Family - and the effect it could have on the ongoing calls for accountability for people with links to Epstein.

We also have two past episodes you might want to listen to. One where we explain why why Andrew was stripped of his title: The Andrew Formerly Known as Prince

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct73mj

And another all about the final drop of the Epstein files: Who and what are in the Epstein files

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct73y0

Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld

Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk

WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6

Presenter: Iqra Farooq

Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates

Editor: Verity Wilde


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