LONDON: Prince William and Kate Middleton have been warned of a security breach at their London home at Kensington Palace when they were spending time at their new home at Windsor.
The Prince and Princess of Wales moved to Forest Lodge some two months ago. The move was seen as a step towards a quieter life as a family. Despite this change, the couple still uses Apartment 1A at Kensington Palace regularly when in London.
The incident took place just before the Christmas period. According to reports, a man in two separate occasions was able to enter the palace grounds. The break-ins occurred on December 21 and another on December 23.
The suspect, identified as thirty-nine-year-old Derek Egan, was seen climbing over a fence with a large rucksack with him. Security people captured him twice in the palace gardens. His actions were recorded and evidence was gathered.
At the time of the incident, Prince William and Kate were not in London. They had joined high-ranking members of the Royal Family at Sandringham for the traditional Christmas walk from church to St Mary Magdalene Church. After that, they carried on with private holiday plans.
Royal officials were informed about the security lapse. The Metropolitan Police’s Royal and Specialist Protection unit is now looking at the case. Former royal protection officer Dai Davies said he had grave concerns about the manner in which the situation was handled.
He raised the question as to why the suspect was allowed bail although he kept repeating the offense. In that regard he said any intrusion near royal residences must be taken seriously. He also noted the importance of evaluating motives, potential fixation and mental health issues.
On Christmas Eve Egan was to appear before Bromley Magistrates Court. However, he allegedly refused to leave the prison transport vehicle. Due to this he was kept in custody.
The royals present in Kensington Palace at the time of the incidents has not been confirmed by Palace officials and the Royal Family. A probe into the breach is still ongoing.
