On the hunt for German-born businessman ‘Fixer’ by Andrew Windsor

A source close to the investigation said: “The sheer frequency with which Stern’s name appears in the files immediately elevated him from a peripheral figure to someone investigators say is critical to understanding how these networks functioned.

“If an individual is referenced more than 7,000 times, it is not incidental. “The authorities now want to get a clear picture of what his involvement actually entailed – whether he was simply a facilitator, a conduit for information, or something more important.

“As a result, active efforts are underway to determine exactly where he is based and to assess whether he would be willing – or compelled – to cooperate with any formal investigations.”

Another insider noted, “Because Stern is quoted so extensively in the material, researchers are increasingly seeing him as an important connecting figure between Andrew and Epstein rather than as a casual acquaintance.

‘His correspondence shows that he was involved in their communications and logistics at crucial moments. If he is indeed living in Abu Dhabi, that introduces layers of legal and diplomatic complications when it comes to speaking to him officially.

“Obtaining testimony or cooperation from someone outside UK jurisdiction – especially in a region with different extradition frameworks – could make any attempt to question him much more challenging and time-consuming.”

It is unknown whether Stern will continue to have contact with Andrew, who has always denied any wrongdoing related to his ties to Epstein.

Following the release of the bombshell files, Andrew was arrested on February 19 on suspicion of misconduct in public office due to his connections to the vile pedophile.