Police Scotland has launched an investigation into a 1999 visit by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and Prince Andrew to the Balmoral royal estate in Scotland. The probe follows allegations of human trafficking involving women transported to the residence. According to Scottish law enforcement, inquiries are in their early stages after receiving information about the stay of Epstein, Andrew, and Epstein's associate Ghislaine Maxwell at the royal castle.
The visit to Balmoral Castle was made by Epstein upon the invitation of Prince Andrew, who held the title at the time. Released photographs show Epstein and Maxwell relaxing inside Glen Beg lodge on the estate grounds, alongside images of Andrew and Epstein participating in a shooting trip. British media reports indicate the new probe addresses suspicions of sex trafficking involving women brought to the Highland retreat.
A Police Scotland spokesperson stated that all investigations remain evidence-based and centered on survivor needs, declining to provide further details. The National Police Chiefs' Council confirmed that several UK forces, including Thames Valley Police, London's Metropolitan Police, and Surrey Police, are actively investigating leads from the unsealed "Epstein Files."
Balmoral Castle, acquired by Queen Victoria in 1852, serves as a traditional summer residence for the British Royal Family and was the site of Queen Elizabeth II's death in September 2022. The castle's history and royal connections have drawn attention to the allegations.
The former Duke of York was stripped of his royal titles by King Charles III following further disclosures regarding his ties to Epstein. In February, Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office over allegations of sharing sensitive information with Epstein during his tenure as a UK trade envoy.
Unsealed email disclosures include a message sent from Balmoral in August 2001, signed "A," asking Maxwell whether she had located any "inappropriate friends" for him. The message has raised concerns about potential connections between the royal family and Epstein's activities.
The investigation is ongoing, with Police Scotland working to gather evidence and understand the extent of the alleged human trafficking. The case has sparked renewed scrutiny of Prince Andrew's ties to Epstein and the royal family's handling of the situation.
Key points
- Police Scotland is investigating alleged human trafficking at Balmoral royal estate involving Jeffrey Epstein and Prince Andrew.
- The probe follows allegations of women being transported to the residence for sex trafficking.
- Prince Andrew was stripped of his royal titles due to his ties to Epstein.
