Questions have been raised about Meghan Markle's security in the UK following allegations of child sexual abuse against her estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been urging the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC), which determines royal security arrangements, to grant them armed police protection while in the UK. According to a source cited by Page Six, their security is only likely to be upgraded if they face a credible threat.
Former Bodyguard Raises Concerns
Simon Morgan, a former Metropolitan Police royal bodyguard, has questioned whether someone might "target Meghan Markle because her father is being accused of being a paedophile." He explained that RAVEC would only consider the matter if its intelligence indicated a risk, looking at factors such as social media chatter, dark web discussions about the allegation, and any increase in negative correspondence to the Sussexes, as well as public perception.
These factors would be analysed to establish whether the Sussexes face an increased risk of harm. The findings would then help determine what action the committee considers appropriate.
Case-by-Case Assessment
Morgan explained that, unlike King Charles, senior royals, the Prime Minister, and former prime ministers—who receive protection because of their positions—the Sussexes' security is assessed on a case-by-case basis. RAVEC uses intelligence to determine the level of risk and the measures required to mitigate potential threats.
Thomas Markle Sr has been accused of possessing child sexual abuse images after his son, Thomas Markle Jr, allegedly discovered images belonging to their father at his former home in the Philippines. Meghan previously said that a letter containing allegations against her father had been sent to the Metropolitan Police and subsequently shared with her. The Duchess said she had been "given assurance that these were being investigated." Thomas Markle Sr has denied possessing any such images.
