Good Morning Britain was interrupted for breaking news to reveal a major update in the criminal investigation into Thomas Markle, father of the Duchess of Sussex. Presenter Ranvir Singh announced there is now "a second person of interest" in the probe.
Singh added: "The country's interior minister has told ITV News they're also examining 7,500 child abuse images. Markle, of course, the father of the Duchess of Sussex, has denied all the allegations against him."
Interior Minister details recovered images
During the programme, Ranvir spoke live to Asia Correspondent Debi Edward, who said: "In our conversation with Interior Minister Jonvic Remulla, he used the word 'deplorable' to describe the images allegedly found on the devices handed into the Philippines police by Thomas Markle's son."
Edward added: "He told me that so far they have recovered 7,500 photos and several videos; some of those images show children as young as 10 or 11, boys and girls engaged in sexual activity with adults."
Investigation background
The investigation began after boxes belonging to Meghan Markle's father allegedly contained child abuse images. His son, Thomas Markle Jr., reportedly found boxes of devices in his father's home in the Philippines. Authorities confirmed that initial forensic probes into the haul, reportedly left at his property in Cebu City, uncovered "multiple files containing depraved imagery" featuring minors.
While Thomas has denied any wrongdoing, it has been claimed that Filipino police have contacted the FBI to search storage boxes belonging to Thomas Markle Sr. in the US. These boxes are believed to be in two storage units in LA owned by the 82-year-old.
Police examine devices and ownership
According to The Times, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating whether Markle appears in the images found, who allegedly produced them, and who owns the devices. Major General Wilson Asueta, the PNP's acting director for investigation management, confirmed on Tuesday (November 3) that Philippine investigators have not been in contact with any British forces.
Philippine detectives are examining a haul of tech, including nine mobile phones, three SD cards, five hard drives, a camera, and printed materials. "If there is evidence, then we will file a case," a police official warned.
While authorities have not yet officially confirmed that the seized devices belonged to Markle, his son insists they do. Major General Asueta confirmed that ownership remains an "active part" of the investigation, adding that detectives are closely examining the circumstances surrounding Thomas Markle Jr.'s involvement. It is understood no formal complaint has yet been lodged against Thomas Markle Snr.
Legal considerations and family ties
Investigators could face a legal hurdle as the retired Hollywood lighting director was admitted to a £3,000-a-month "memory care" home in Florida on Friday (October 30). As he now resides in Florida following a leg amputation, he is subject to US law and must "knowingly and intelligently" waive his rights before giving any statements that could be used against him in court.
The Duchess of Sussex has previously revealed that Scotland Yard detectives presented her with a letter containing "disturbing and troubling allegations" about her estranged father back in 2019. Meghan reportedly wrote a final letter to her father last year to officially cut ties with him after becoming aware of the abuse allegations.
