A senior detective involved in the investigation reportedly said the raid was kept secret to protect evidence.
According to The Sun, the unnamed Detective Chief Inspector said police needed to collect relevant evidence quickly and securely. They warned that failing to do so could lead to evidence being lost and damage public trust in the investigation.
The detective also said they could not rely on Andrew or his representatives to give officers access to the properties. Police needed the proper legal authority to enter.
Andrew’s lawyers challenged the reasons given for this approach. They argued that Thames Valley Police should have contacted him, especially because the investigation was already being reported in the media.
His legal team said the application did not adequately explain the grounds for the police’s conclusion. They pointed to his previous public role, the close media attention he faces and his stated willingness to cooperate with other investigations.
The article also mentions rumours that King Charles did not know about the investigation, but it provides no evidence to support them.
