Philippine police have secured a warrant to examine electronic devices seized from the former residence of Thomas Markle, the father of the Duchess of Sussex. The move follows reports earlier this month that hundreds of images of child sexual abuse were allegedly discovered at the property in the Philippines.
Last week, four boxes containing computers, phones, hard drives, and old videotapes were handed over to police by Thomas Markle Jr., Meghan Markle's half-brother. Officers in Cebu required a court warrant before they could proceed with an examination of the materials.
Thomas Markle Sr., currently in the United States, has denied the allegations made by his son, calling them "sick lies." Cebu Regional Prosecutor Graeme Elmido confirmed to the BBC that Thomas Markle Jr. was insistent on a thorough investigation, stating his belief that his father "has to answer for it."
The Sun on Sunday reported that Thomas Markle Sr.'s ex-wife, Roslyn Loveless, had previously sent a letter to the Metropolitan Police in 2019 regarding similar allegations. This correspondence was reportedly shared with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex at the time. Loveless, who is the mother of Meghan Markle's two half-siblings, died after divorcing Thomas Markle Sr. in 1975.
The Duchess of Sussex has been estranged from her father since 2018. The BBC understands she ceased contact last year after informing him that she and authorities were aware of his alleged abuse of young girls. In a statement, Meghan Markle confirmed the existence of a letter and expressed her distress, stating, "my thoughts are with any children who may have been harmed." She added that her decision to largely cut off contact and prevent him from seeing their children was understandable.
Thomas Markle Jr. also issued an apology to his half-sister, Meghan Markle, for initially supporting their father during their prolonged estrangement. He stated he had "been protecting the wrong person for the past nine years."
Thomas Markle Sr. relocated to the Philippines last year after suffering a series of strokes and resided in Cebu until May. He is reportedly now in a rehabilitation center in Florida, focusing on regaining the ability to walk after a leg amputation. Philippine authorities have indicated that they must first determine how the alleged material was obtained before considering any criminal charges. Cebu is recognized by authorities as a location where child sexual exploitation is a concern, and officials emphasize the seriousness with which they treat such allegations.