Met Police Probe After Meghan's Dad Accused of Child Abuse Images

The Metropolitan Police have launched an internal inquiry after reports emerged that officers from the Royalty and Specialist Protection Command may have passed on a 2018 letter alleging child sex abuse against Thomas Markle Sr, Meghan Markle’s father ^[1]. The force confirmed it is not conducting a criminal investigation into Thomas Sr, but is examining whether procedures were followed in handling the letter ^[2].

Meghan Markle said she was 'deeply distressed' by the revelations, stating the letter—sent to Scotland Yard and later shared with her—contained 'troubling and disturbing allegations' and that she was told at the time they were being investigated ^[1]. She reiterated that her decision to cut ties with her father was made solely to protect her children.

In the Philippines, the Department of Justice’s Anti-Trafficking and OSAEC task force is investigating allegations involving an American national in his 80s, believed to be Thomas Sr, who is accused of leaving child sexual abuse material at his former home in Cebu province ^[1]. His son, Thomas Markle Jr, claims to have found a large stash of images and videos—including footage of girls under 12—on devices stored in four boxes left behind when his father moved back to the US.

The FBI has been made aware of the allegations and is considering launching its own investigation, according to ^[1], though it has not been confirmed whether a probe will proceed. The US agency has reportedly reached out to Philippine authorities, and a joint investigation could follow if both countries agree to coordinate under UN protocols on child exploitation.

Experts suggest that such cross-border probes are possible, especially when evidence is stored abroad, and that techniques like reverse image searches could help identify victims and locations ^[1]. The decision on which country leads the investigation may depend on which has stronger evidence or a faster path to trial.

Thomas Sr has denied the claims, calling them 'sick lies' fabricated by his son for financial gain ^[1]. The situation remains under active review by both Philippine and US authorities. The story was first reported by Daily Mail and The Independent.