The Duchess of Sussex has stated she was made aware of "disturbing allegations" concerning her estranged father, Thomas Markle, in 2018. Meghan revealed in a statement that a letter detailing these allegations was sent to the Metropolitan Police and subsequently shared with her.

This disclosure emerges following reports that images allegedly depicting child sexual abuse were found at Mr. Markle's former residence in the Philippines. The 82-year-old, who resides in the US, has denied possessing such material.

In response to the allegations, which were first reported by The Sun newspaper, the Duchess expressed deep distress. "I am deeply distressed at the news that has come to light in the last 24 hours, and my thoughts are with any children who may have been harmed," she stated. She also noted that she received assurances the allegations were being investigated at the time.

Meghan explained that this awareness contributed to her decision to maintain distance from her father and prevent him from contacting their children. "This was to protect them," she said, adding her trust that authorities were similarly protecting other families. She described the allegations as "more sickening than one could ever imagine" and expressed hope for justice and the prioritization of child safety.

Meghan's half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., reportedly informed The Sun that he discovered the alleged child abuse images at their father's home in the Philippines and subsequently alerted the authorities. The Undersecretary for the Philippines Department of Justice, Nicholas Ty, confirmed to the BBC that a task force is investigating the matter, focusing on anti-human trafficking and child sexual exploitation.

Philippines Interior Minister Jonvic Remulla also told the BBC that national police have taken possession of Thomas Markle Sr.'s computer for a comprehensive digital forensic examination. The minister indicated that the analysis to determine the scope of alleged criminal activities is expected to take one week.

It is understood that the Metropolitan Police in the UK are not and have not been investigating Thomas Markle. However, the force is conducting an internal inquiry to ascertain if its royal protection unit passed the letter containing the allegations to the Duchess. The FBI has stated it is aware of the allegations and will offer support to Philippine authorities as appropriate, while also investigating any potential violations of US law.

The allegations shed new light on the strained relationship between the Duchess and her father. The statement from the Duchess indicates that she learned of the allegations in 2018, the same year she married Prince Harry. Sources close to the Sussexes suggested that Meghan first became aware of these claims after her wedding.