British political heavyweight Peter Mandelson was arrested in a misconduct probe linked to Jeffrey Epstein, questioned by police, and released on bail pending further investigation
Peter Mandelson has been released on bail just hours after being arrested by the Metropolitan Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest was a significant escalation in an investigation tied to his past links with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Police confirmed that the 72-year-old was detained on Monday and questioned before being released pending further inquiries. He was later seen returning to his London home in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Mandelson was taken into custody at his residence in Camden, north London, as part of an investigation launched earlier this month. Authorities are examining allegations that, while serving as a senior government minister, he may have shared confidential and market-sensitive information with Epstein.
The arrest came after police executed search warrants at properties in Camden and Wiltshire. Officers from the Met’s specialist crime division are leading the probe, with consultations ongoing with the Crown Prosecution Service to determine the next legal steps.
The controversy gained momentum after the US Department of Justice released documents, including emails between Mandelson and Epstein. One 2009 message reportedly showed Mandelson sharing internal policy assessments from advisers to then prime minister Gordon Brown. Other exchanges appeared to reference sensitive economic decisions, including tax plans and bailout measures, before they were publicly announced.
Mandelson denies wrongdoing
Mandelson has not publicly addressed the latest developments, but sources cited by the BBC, say he maintains he did nothing illegal and was not driven by financial motives. His arrest has added further strain to his already controversial fall from diplomatic service.
He had been appointed British ambassador to the United States in February 2025 but was dismissed just months later after Downing Street cited new details about the extent of his relationship with Epstein.
Political fallout intensifies
The case has triggered sharp political reactions across the UK.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government is preparing to release official documents related to Mandelson’s appointment, though some records may be withheld due to the ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, opposition leader Kemi Badenoch called the arrest a defining moment for Starmer’s leadership, arguing it raises serious questions about judgment and accountability at the highest levels.
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