Philippines probes Thomas Markle over alleged child sexual abuse images
Philippine authorities have opened an investigation into Thomas Markle after claims he possessed child sexual abuse material, which he has denied.
Philippine anti-trafficking officials said they are investigating Thomas Markle, the father of Meghan, wife of Prince Harry, following allegations that he owned child sexual abuse images. "Our Anti-Trafficking and Anti-OSAEC (online sexual abuse and exploitation of children) task force in Cebu is currently investigating the matter," justice undersecretary Nicholas Ty told Reuters.
Meghan Markle issued a statement expressing distress over the claims, which first appeared in a British tabloid. She said she had been aware of the allegations since 2018 and had barred her father from contact with her children, Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5, to protect them. "I am deeply distressed at the news that has come to light in the last 24 hours, and my thoughts are with any children who may have been harmed. My sincerest hope is that justice will be fully served and that the priority remains the safety and protection of innocent children," she said.
According to Philippine interior minister Jonvic Remulla, Meghan's half-brother, also named Thomas, gave police a laptop containing evidence that matched details reported by the Sun newspaper. The minister added that Thomas Markle, who had previously lived in Cebu, is believed to be back in the United States.
British police confirmed they are reviewing media reports about a 2018 letter forwarded to the Met’s Royalty and Specialist Protection Command. A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said an internal inquiry is underway to verify the information.
The FBI said it is aware of the allegations and will cooperate with Philippine authorities as appropriate, adding that it will also investigate any potential violations of U.S. law.