Meghan Markle’s estranged half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., has been named a person of interest in a disturbing child sexual abuse investigation involving their father, Thomas Markle Sr.
Philippine authorities announced the development Thursday, Nov. 5, revealing that investigators are examining whether Markle Jr., 60, had any involvement in alleged crimes involving minors.
“There are signs that point that the son is involved in the crime as well but only as a person of interest so far,” Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla told reporters.
The announcement comes after Markle Jr. reportedly alerted police and the FBI to suspected child sexual abuse images discovered among his father’s belongings. Authorities have since recovered approximately 7,500 photographs and one video depicting minors, including children believed to be just 10 or 11 years old.
Remulla called the material “really, really disturbing.”
Investigators are also examining separate witness allegations concerning underage girls reportedly visiting Markle Jr.’s residence in Cebu.
However, officials stressed that he has not been named a suspect, and no criminal wrongdoing has been established.
Markle Sr., 82, who returned to the United States in May, has strongly denied possessing illegal images and suggested he was being set up.
The former Hollywood lighting director remains estranged from Meghan, who previously expressed being “deeply distressed” by allegations involving her father.
Investigators have not announced charges against either man.