PNP probes Thomas Markle’s possible local accomplices after US arrest

MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Monday it was investigating the possible local accomplices of Thomas Markle Sr. following the discovery of alleged child sexual abuse and exploitation materials in digital devices recovered from his former home in Cebu.

Markle Sr. is the father of Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle.

The investigation is being conducted in coordination with United States law enforcement authorities, following Markle’s arrest in Florida over the alleged possession of child sexual abuse materials.

PNP chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said investigators were looking into Markle’s activities and possible associates in the Philippines.

“We are looking also of possible violations, if there would be, or possible violations that he committed here in the Philippines including his cohort. Of course, kasi nandito, hindi naman pwede na nandito lang siya na mag-isa lang siya,” Nartatez said.

Authorities are verifying his activities from the time he entered the Philippines until he left in the second quarter of this year.

The PNP estimates that Markle stayed in the country for around nine to ten months.

Meanwhile, Nartatez clarified that there was no evidence so far linking Markle’s son, Thomas Markle Jr., to the alleged offenses.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla earlier tagged the younger Markle as a person of interest after he surrendered the recovered materials to authorities.

Nartatez said investigators were still looking into the son’s possible involvement, along with other individuals who could have had contact with his father.

“Our probers are still investigating, but as of now, there is no evidence to show that his son is involved,” Nartatez said.

“But just like what I’m saying, we are investigating kung sino ‘yung associates, his activities, and other personal effects na pwedeng maimbestigiahan and that includes his son,” he added.

Markle Sr., 82, was arrested by US authorities in Florida on November 6 and charged with one count of possession of child pornography, according to US authorities.

The arrest came after Philippine authorities initially found alleged child sexual abuse and exploitation materials in digital devices surrendered by his son, including videos depicting minors engaged in sexual activities.