UPDATE: In a significant development, former royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has faced restrictions on his use of firearms following a police visit to his residence at Royal Lodge in Windsor. Officials from the Metropolitan Police confirmed that the 65-year-old has voluntarily surrendered his firearm and shotgun certificate after discussions on November 19, 2023.
This news comes as Andrew, previously known as Prince Andrew, has been an active participant in shooting parties. The restrictions mean he will no longer be able to use or transport shotguns without supervision. Authorities have not seized any firearms from his residence but have imposed conditions on their storage and access.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated,
“On Wednesday November 19, firearms licensing officers attended an address in Windsor to request that a man in his 60s voluntarily surrender his firearms and shotgun certificate. The certificate was surrendered, and we will not be commenting any further at this stage.”
The reasons behind these restrictions are currently unclear, but they come amidst ongoing scrutiny of Andrew’s public image, particularly following his association with the late financier and convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In October 2022, his brother, King Charles, stripped him of royal titles and evicted him from Royal Lodge, mandating his relocation to an outbuilding at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk.
In addition, Andrew has faced longstanding allegations from Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual assault, claims he has consistently denied. In February 2022, he reached a reported settlement of $12 million with Giuffre to resolve a civil sexual assault claim, although he did not admit to any wrongdoing.
As the situation develops, the implications for Andrew’s public standing and personal freedoms remain significant. The restrictions placed by the police highlight ongoing concerns surrounding his conduct and safety, both for him and the public.
Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story, as the ramifications of these developments could resonate within royal circles and beyond.
