New court documents released on Friday shed new light on the relationship between Prince Andrew and Yang Tengbo, a Chinese businessman accused of using his position to influence UK interests.
The details became public after a legal challenge brought by multiple media outlets seeking greater transparency in the case. These revelations bring fresh attention to national security concerns surrounding individuals close to the royal family.
The issue centers around Yang, who lived in the UK for over two decades and built strong ties with influential figures, including Prince Andrew. Authorities believe Yang used his access to the prince to quietly support the aims of the Chinese Communist Party. This type of activity, known as elite capture, is not traditional spying but involves slowly shaping the opinions and actions of key people through close relationships and business ties.
Their connection reportedly grew stronger following the backlash from Prince Andrew’s televised interview in 2019 about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. As the prince stepped back from public duties, Yang remained involved in business efforts around him, including the now-defunct Pitch@Palace initiative. Documents show that Yang gained special access to royal events and even arranged discreet meetings at the prince’s residence. He was seen as someone who could open doors in China when many were turning their backs.
Yang’s role expanded into business deals that raised alarms. He was involved in planning a multibillion-dollar investment fund aimed at projects tied to Chinese interests in Africa and the Middle East. Prince Andrew was expected to lead the fund, which raised concerns among British security agencies. They feared the project might be used to push Chinese influence through royal connections, especially at a time when the prince was struggling financially and seeking new income sources.
Investigators also noted that companies connected to Prince Andrew’s aide were created in Bahrain as part of a plan to take over the Pitch@Palace brand. This deal, which included partnerships with overseas firms, was close to generating significant revenue for the prince but eventually fell apart. Some events still took place under this partnership, including in Beijing, where Yang was praised by officials.
The Chinese businessman was also present at a private business meeting with the Chinese ambassador at Royal Lodge, Prince Andrew’s residence, in late 2024. This gathering raised fresh questions about how foreign representatives were allowed into royal property for undisclosed meetings, especially with someone already on the radar of UK security services.
Yang has been banned from returning to the UK due to concerns that his actions could be harmful to the country’s interests. Though he denies any wrongdoing, the situation has sparked widespread debate over the blurred lines between personal relationships and national security, especially involving members of the royal family.
More details are expected to emerge in the coming weeks as the case continues to unfold. The documents released so far offer only part of a complex story that may have lasting consequences for both Prince Andrew and those who once worked closely with him.