Seven UK Police Forces Launch Coordinated Epstein Files Investigation
In a significant development, seven UK police forces have now initiated investigations into the Jeffrey Epstein files, following explosive allegations that victims were transported into the country via Stansted Airport even after the convicted sex offender was imprisoned. This nationwide probe has drawn connections to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Prince Andrew, as authorities scrutinise flight records and communications linked to the disgraced financier's network.
Stansted Airport Flights Under Microscope
Central to the investigation are claims that Epstein's victims were flown into Stansted Airport aboard the so-called "Lolita Express" private jet. Reports indicate that approximately 90 flights landed at the airport's private terminal, with a concerning 15 of those occurring after Epstein was jailed in 2008 for child sex offences. Essex Police have confirmed they are actively assessing information related to these private flights, stating they are examining flight logs and emails that have emerged from the publication of the US Department of Justice Epstein files.
According to former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, messages within the Epstein files allegedly link Andrew, aged 65, to at least one victim who was flown into Stansted before being covertly taken to Buckingham Palace. This revelation has intensified scrutiny on the royal figure, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Multi-Force Investigation Expands
The investigation now involves a coordinated effort across multiple police jurisdictions. Alongside Essex Police, forces including the Metropolitan Police, Thames Valley Police, Surrey Police, Norfolk Police, and Bedfordshire Police are all assessing evidence contained within the Epstein documents. Wiltshire Police are also assisting the Metropolitan Police's separate investigation into Peter Mandelson, who is accused of leaking information to Epstein during his tenure as Business Secretary.
Surrey Police have stated they are engaging with "relevant agencies" to obtain access to unredacted files connected to child abuse claims against Epstein's co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell. A spokesperson noted that initial reviews found no evidence of these allegations being previously reported to their force, necessitating further access to complete information.
Specific Allegations Against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
Thames Valley Police are examining multiple claims directly related to the former prince. These include allegations that a woman in her twenties was sent to the UK by Epstein in 2010 for a sexual encounter with Andrew at Royal Lodge. Additionally, the force is liaising with prosecutors over claims against Andrew during his period as UK trade envoy from 2001 to 2011.
Bedfordshire Police are believed to be investigating flights connected to Luton Airport, while Norfolk Police, though not having received specific allegations, are reviewing documents to ensure all relevant information is properly assessed. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed they are in contact with the FBI as part of their Mandelson investigation, seeking to obtain unredacted documents.
National Coordination and Pressure
In response to the scale of the allegations, the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) has established a specialist group to liaise with US law enforcement. This group, which includes experts on sexual offending and is chaired by former Met Assistant Commissioner Louisa Rolfe, aims to ensure consistency across forces. Due to the volume of information, a national investigation led by the Metropolitan Police appears increasingly likely.
The Met faces mounting pressure to launch a separate investigation into sex allegations against Andrew, beyond their existing probe into Mandelson. Notably, the force previously interviewed Virginia Giuffre in 2015 after she claimed she was trafficked by Epstein at age 17 to have sex with Andrew at Maxwell’s London flat in 2001, but chose not to proceed at that time.
The NPCC emphasised their collaborative approach, stating they are working to understand the potential impact of the millions of published documents and to support justice for victims and survivors. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has strongly denied any wrongdoing, and it is important to note that mere mention in the files does not imply guilt.
