Meghan Markle, Prince Harry Denounce "Reckless" Paparazzi Activity Outside Children's School

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have condemned what they describe as an "extraordinarily reckless" security incident involving paparazzi outside the school attended by their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

A spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex stated that the actions of photographers who were observed monitoring the school grounds and children constituted a significant breach of privacy. "There is a world of difference between legitimate media activity and photographers walking the perimeter of a school, stopping to look into the grounds and monitoring children as they go about their day," the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added that it is "concerning" that members of the European paparazzi "appear unwilling to respect the privacy of children at school." The statement continued, "But to behave in this manner in these particular circumstances, and so soon after the incident at RAF Fairford, demonstrates an extraordinary lack of judgment."

According to reports, two individuals were seen by private security and school staff walking the perimeter of the school where Archie and Lilibet are enrolled. The men, carrying backpacks, were observed separately before returning to a white van, which was later identified as a rental vehicle.

Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet's school is also attended by children from families associated with a nearby U.S. military installation at an RAF base. Following their return to the UK, the Sussex children were enrolled in a private school with an annual tuition of approximately $35,000. However, the family withdrew Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5, after only two days due to security concerns.

Previous security issues for the family in the UK have included Meghan Markle's personal mobile number reportedly being leaked after she joined a WhatsApp group for parents at the school. Following an interaction within the group chat, a screenshot that included Markle's phone number was allegedly shared by other members.

Earlier this month, Prince Harry commented on his children's adjustment to school, stating in an interview that they are "happy in school." He also remarked on being back on British soil.

The Sussexes are continuing efforts to secure taxpayer-funded security, despite no longer being working members of the royal family. The couple, who stepped back from royal duties in 2020, were recently granted a security review in response to their return to England. This review requires them to provide details of their daily routines, including school runs.

King Charles III has previously characterized Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as living in the UK as "private citizens with commercial and charitable interests."