British police said on Thursday they had arrested Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former prince and younger brother of King Charles, over alleged misconduct during the course of his official duties.

Thames Valley Police, which oversees the area where the Royal Lodge residence is located and where Andrew had been living until recently, confirmed the arrest in a brief statement, adding that investigations were ongoing.

Reports said searches were being carried out in parts of England believed to be linked to the same case.

Police did not provide further details on the nature of the alleged misconduct, and there was no immediate comment from Buckingham Palace.