Masked thieves break into Windsor Castle estate, raising concerns about royal security

LONDON (AP) — British police are investigating a burglary at the Windsor Castle estate, raising concerns about security at the royal residence west of London.

Thames Valley Police said in a statement that the suspects stole a pickup truck and a quad bike from a farm building on the property just before midnight on October 13. Police determined the general location of the property, indicating that the theft occurred more than a mile from the scene. Windsor Castle.

The Sun newspaper, which first reported the theft, said two masked men climbed a 1.8-metre fence before taking the vehicles and escaping through the security barrier.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla were not at Windsor Castle at the time of the raid. The newspaper suggested that Prince William and his family were at Adelaide Cottage, their home on the property, about five minutes’ drive from the scene of the burglary.

Police said the investigation into the incident continues. No arrests were made.

The Sun reported last month that London’s Metropolitan Police, which provides armed protection for royals across Britain, had removed armed officers from public entrances to Windsor Castle. According to the newspaper’s report, based on unidentified police sources, it was stated that this change was made due to the shortage of officers authorized to carry firearms and to address the concerns of tourists who were uneasy about the presence of armed officers.

Armed officers are still stationed around the castle.

The Met told the newspaper that security arrangements were being kept under “continuous review”, taking into account the latest threat assessment.

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