Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the 66-year-old former prince of the United Kingdom, was arrested on Thursday for allegedly abusing his official position, connected to allegations presented in Epstein documents. This marks a significant moment as it is the first time Prince Andrew has faced arrest. The incident adds to the ongoing scrutiny regarding Andrew's controversial relationships and that of the royal family's ties with Jeffrey Epstein.

His arrest occurred on his birthday, at 8 a.m., at his residence in Wood Farm, Norfolk. On the same day, police began searching Andrew's former home in Windsor Great Park. Media reports indicate that typically a preliminary arrest lasts a few hours, during which time home searches and interrogations take place. However, it appears unlikely that Andrew will be held in custody for more than 24 hours, as legal precedents in such cases suggest rapid resolutions are common.

After a 24-hour period, explained legal expert Tom Frost, police can either charge Andrew, release him on bail, or keep him under investigation. British media also report that Andrew is suspected of having links to significant allegations that could implicate him further in this evolving scandal, raising questions regarding accountability and the future of his association with the monarchy.