MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) will work closely with law enforcement agencies abroad as authorities look into allegations linking the father of Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, to possession of child abuse and exploitation images.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stressed the need for cross-border cooperation in investigating Thomas Markle over suspected child exploitation, particularly cases that may involve digital evidence and individuals with links to different countries.
“The safety of our children remains a priority. Those who try to engage in child exploitation often extend beyond borders, and as such, it emphasizes the importance of strong coordination with our foreign counterparts,” Nartatez said.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla earlier said Markle is under investigation over allegations relating to possession of images of sexual abuse on children.
Authorities said images of child abuse were reportedly found among his belongings at his former home in Cebu, although he reportedly denied the allegations.
Digital forensics on a laptop is now being conducted and full results are expected to be released next week, Remulla said.
Nartatez said the PNP will coordinate with its foreign counterparts to facilitate information sharing and support the investigation.
“We will thoroughly investigate the accusations and we will make the necessary coordination with law enforcement agencies in the United Kingdom and the United States for better information sharing on the matter,” he added.
He emphasized that any criminal action would depend on the findings of the investigation.
