As questions grow over who funded the York sisters’ lavish lifestyles, how a Libyan gun smuggler was invited to Eugenie’s wedding, while bride Beatrice received ‘£750,000 as a gift’ from Turkish millionairess

A recent examination of the princesses’ substantial wedding gifts has raised new doubts about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s financial practices, according to a newly released book. Historian Andrew Lownie uncovered details about extravagant contributions, including a £750,000 transfer to the Duke’s private account, allegedly tied to Princess Beatrice’s ceremony.

The book highlights the presence of Tarek Kaituni, a Libyan firearms dealer, at Eugenie’s 2018 nuptials. Kaituni, who had known the Duke since 2005, was also noted for gifting a £18,000 diamond necklace to the princess for her 21st birthday. This attendance, combined with the significant sums involved, has led to renewed scrutiny of the family’s financial arrangements.

Turkish businesswoman Nebahat Isbilen, who had previously sued business consultant Selman Turk for £40 million, is now central to the investigation. She reportedly sent £750,000 to the Duke’s personal account in 2019, which the Duke’s office described as a wedding gift for Princess Beatrice. The timing of this transaction, just days after Turk won an award at Pitch@Palace for his digital bank concept, has sparked further questions.

Financial entanglements and court disputes

Dr. Johnny Hon, a Hong Kong-based tycoon, was among the elite guests at Eugenie’s wedding. Known for his close ties to Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, Hon held a non-executive role at Gate Ventures, a venture capital firm where he was chairing. His involvement, however, became contentious after a legal dispute emerged when Chinese investors accused the company of misleading shareholders about loans to Ginger & Moss, a venture backed by the Duchess.

“That is not the purpose for which these small Chinese investors paid their money into the company,” noted a judge during the proceedings, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the expenses.

Despite Hon’s claims that all charges were “legitimate business expenses,” including a £8,000 tea meeting with the Duchess, the payments raised eyebrows. The £24 million raised from investors was reportedly £19 million short, leading to allegations of mismanagement and lavish spending. Hon defended his actions, stating, “No part of the spending was for my personal benefit or personal enjoyment. It was hard, often exhausting, but necessary work.”

Three years later, the princesses’ family took a four-day trip to Tunisia, funded by a Middle Eastern billionaire. The visit included a meeting with Colonel Gaddafi, adding another layer to the financial web. These events, along with the Virginia Giuffre settlement, have intensified scrutiny into the Duke’s financial dealings and his relationships with high-profile individuals.