Duke told to prove his identity after break-in

The Duke of York has said he is “grateful” for an apology from police after officers challenged him in the gardens of Buckingham Palace less than 48 hours after a break-in at the Queen’s home.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a man was ordered to verify his identity by two officers at around 6pm on Wednesday.

Prince Andrew said in a statement yesterday: “The police have a difficult job to do balancing security for the Royal Family and deterring intruders, and sometimes they get it wrong.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I am grateful for their apology and look forward to a safe walk in the garden in the future.”

The confrontation came after an intruder was able to scale a fence and get inside the palace last Monday night, before being arrested by police. A police spokesman said no weapons were drawn and no force was used.

A security review has been launched following Monday night’s suspected burglary. Police said the man was found shortly before 10.30pm “in an area currently open to the public during the day” and arrested for burglary, trespass and criminal damage.

A second man was arrested outside the palace for conspiracy to commit burglary. Both have been bailed while enquiries continue.