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Federal prosecutors believe they now have enough evidence to arrest alleged co-conspirators who recruited and “groomed” underage girls for the paedophile tycoon and his powerful friends. The source said: “They are ready to ask a judge to issue arrest warrants which will be acted on immediately.” The FBI will also seek search warrants for any properties in which the suspects are residing.

“This is the first major step in an investigation that now spans several countries where Epstein – through his closest aides – had teams of procurers scouting for fresh victims,” the source added.

Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, is not among those whom the police are seeking to arrest.

Virginia Giuffre, formerly Roberts, gave an interview to NBC news last month in which she described the prince as “an abuser”.

He has denied having “any form of sexual contact or relationship” with Ms Giuffre and Buckingham Palace has said the claims are “false and without any foundation”.

The Palace said Prince Andrew was “appalled” by the reports of Epstein’s “alleged crimes”. It added: “His Royal Highness deplores the exploitation of any human being and the suggestion he would condone, participate in or encourage any such behaviour is abhorrent.”