British police arrested Peter Mandelson, a former U.K. ambassador to the United States, in a misconduct probe linked to his ties with Jeffrey Epstein. The 72-year-old was detained at a north London address on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

Authorities are investigating whether Mandelson passed sensitive government information to Epstein in 2009, when he served in the then-government. The probe stems from emails published showing he maintained contact with Epstein after the financier's 2008 conviction for sex offenses involving a minor.

Mandelson's arrest follows similar action against Prince Andrew, who was questioned for 11 hours in a separate case. Police searched Mandelson's two homes in London and western England. The case has raised questions about Prime Minister Keir Starmer's judgment in appointing Mandelson, potentially threatening his leadership position.