Since 2019, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has not been privy to taxpayer-funded security and has instead relied upon private protection.
Following reports that the former prince was allegedly confronted yesterday near his Norfolk residence by a "balaclava-clad man", questions surrounding his security have come to the fore.
The incident reportedly unfolded at approximately 7.30pm in the vicinity of the Sandringham Estate, where the former Duke of York had been walking his dogs.
According to the Telegraph, the suspect was said to be wearing a balaclava and was approximately 50 yards from Mr Mountbatten-Windsor when the alleged threat occurred.
Norfolk Police confirmed they arrested a man "behaving in an intimidating manner".
Mr Mountbatten-Windsor was said to have a member of his private security team accompanying him.
He currently relies on private security after he was told to step down from his royal duties by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2019.
GB News understands the King now makes a lump sum to cover his brother's expenses, including security protection, though it is up to Andrew how the finances are allocated.
Dai Davies, who previously served as a divisional commander in the Metropolitan Police, detailed to Hello Magazine the extent of the security measures.
Since 2019, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has not been privy to taxpayer-funded security and has instead relied upon private protection
| GETTY"It would have cost reconnaissance, it would have cost travel, it would have cost hotels," he explained.
"And royalty protection officers normally travel business class, and they would never stay in less than four or five-star hotels."
There are reports that the private bodyguards he employs are former close protection officers of the Metropolitan Police - the team who would protect Andrew if he still received taxpayer-funded security.
However, they are not armed, nor do they receive intelligence.
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He currently resides at Marsh Farm, in the broad proximity of where the alleged incident on Wednesday evening took place
| GETTYIn 2025, Andrew was stripped of his titles and honours and formally instructed to relinquish the lease on Royal Lodge, the Windsor property he had occupied for years.
Andrew left the residence in early February and relocated to the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk.
He currently resides at Marsh Farm, in the broad proximity of where the alleged incident on Wednesday evening took place.
Mr Mountbatten-Windsor apparently left the scene of the incident yesterday by car as the man allegedly attempted to run after the departing vehicle.
In 2025, Andrew was stripped of his titles and honours and formally instructed to relinquish the lease on Royal Lodge, the Windsor property he had occupied for years
| GETTYA Norfolk Police spokesman said: "Officers were called to Wolferton shortly after 7.30pm yesterday (Wednesday 6 May 2026) following a report a man was behaving in an intimidating manner in the village.
"Officers attended, and the man was arrested on suspicion of a public order offence and possession of an offensive weapon.
"He was taken to King’s Lynn Police Investigation Centre for questioning and remains in custody."
Both the former duke, who was reportedly left shaken, and his protection officer were asked to give statements.
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