International Probe Launched into Thomas Markle Sr Allegations
Philippine authorities investigate claims of child sex abuse images at former home; Meghan Markle expresses distress.
Callum Smith
Authorities in the Philippines are investigating claims that Thomas Markle Sr had a hoard of child sex abuse images at his former home.
The FBI is aware of the allegations and will provide support to Philippine authorities where appropriate. The agency also stated, "We will also investigate any related allegations of federal violations of US law."
Meghan Markle released a statement confirming a letter was sent to the Met Police containing "disturbing allegations" about her estranged father's behavior, which was subsequently shared with her. She stated, "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."
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.
She added that the letter "made troubling and disturbing allegations against my father and I was given assurances that these were being investigated." Meghan also claimed that the distance from her father and her choice to not allow him contact with their children was to protect them.
Thomas Markle Sr., who denies the allegations, moved to the Philippines in 2025 after a series of strokes. He is currently in a rehabilitation center in Florida, learning to walk with a prosthetic limb after his left leg was amputated below the knee in December.
Philippines Interior Minister Jonvic Remulla stated that national police secured Thomas Markle Sr.'s computer for a digital forensic examination, with results expected in one week. Nicholas Ty confirmed, "Our Anti-Trafficking and Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children taskforce in Cebu is currently investigating the matter."
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson stated, "We are aware of media reports that officers from the Met's Royalty and Specialist Protection Command were involved in the passing on of a letter in 2018." The spokesperson added, "We are undertaking inquiries internally in an effort to confirm this."
UK police are not investigating Thomas Markle Sr. The relationship between Meghan and her father broke down in the run-up to her wedding in 2018, when Thomas Markle colluded with photographers to stage photos.
Meghan's half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., reportedly contacted FBI investigators in the US in July. Thomas Markle Jr. claims he discovered child abuse pictures and videos among family belongings while clearing the property, stating, "When I found this material I was horrified and I had no option but to report my dad."
This is bulls. It's just a bunch of lies. It's sick. I have no idea why Tom is trying to destroy me with these lies. I'm shocked, I'm hurt and I'm very upset that my son is making these accusations against me. I could never do what I'm being accused of. It's the worst thing anyone could accuse me of.
Conversely, Thomas Markle Sr. vehemently denies the accusations, stating, "This is bulls*. It's just a bunch of lies. It's sick. I have no idea why Tom is trying to destroy me with these lies." He also said, "I'm shocked, I'm hurt and I'm very upset that my son is making these accusations against me. I could never do what I'm being accused of. It's the worst thing anyone could accuse me of."