Malta Braces for Andrew Probe

As the sun dipped below the ancient walls of Mdina, casting a warm glow over the silent cobbled streets, a phone rang in the office of a senior Maltese police officer. On the other end was a call that would echo far beyond the Mediterranean, all the way to the palaces of Buckingham. The allegation? Sexual misconduct by Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, during his visits to Malta.

The claim, made by a woman now in her 30s, alleges that she was trafficked to London and forced to have sex with the prince at a property in Belgravia in 2001. The woman, who is now seeking damages in a US civil court, claims that the abuse occurred when she was 17, and that Andrew was aware of her age. The prince, who has stepped back from public duties, has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

But the allegations have reached the shores of Malta, where Andrew has been a frequent visitor. The woman claims that she was also forced to have sex with the prince at the luxury yacht club in the Maltese port of Marsamxett, during a visit in 2008. The club, with its panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, is a favoured haunt of the rich and famous, and Andrew has been a guest on several occasions.

Malta’s police, known for their professionalism and discretion, are now preparing to assist their British counterparts in the investigation. The Maltese authorities, who have a strong record in tackling human trafficking, are expected to provide crucial evidence and support to the UK’s Metropolitan Police.

Malta’s proximity to the UK, its English-speaking population, and its strong legal framework make it an ideal location for international investigations. The island’s police force has previously assisted in high-profile cases, including the hunt for the killers of Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.

For Malta, this is not just a case of assisting a friendly nation. It’s about protecting its own reputation. As a popular tourist destination and a hub for international business, Malta relies on its image as a safe, stable, and law-abiding country. Any association with such serious allegations could damage that image.

The coming weeks will be crucial. The Metropolitan Police will need to decide whether to open a full investigation, and if so, whether to interview Andrew. The prince, who has previously given a disastrous TV interview about his relationship with the woman, may face further questions about his past.

For Malta, the focus will be on supporting the UK investigation, while also protecting its own interests. The island’s police will be under pressure to act swiftly and fairly, while also safeguarding the privacy and dignity of any victims.

As the sun rises over the ancient city of Mdina, the police officer who received that call will be preparing for a day that could see his force play a pivotal role in a global scandal. The eyes of the world are on Malta, and the island is ready to face the storm.