London – Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, have publicly condemned what they described as an “extraordinarily reckless” intrusion by two international photographers at the school their children attend. Private security staff and school personnel spotted the men carrying backpacks and walking the school grounds, prompting immediate concern for the safety and privacy of the royal children.
Photographers accused of violating school perimeter
A spokesperson for the Sussexes called the incident “an extraordinary lack of judgment” and an “unacceptable intrusion” into the privacy of children. The photographers were seen walking the perimeter of the school and looking into the grounds, actions the spokesperson said demonstrated a disregard for the safety of minors.
“It is concerning enough that certain European photographers appear unwilling to respect the privacy of children at school,” the spokesperson said. “To behave in this manner, especially so soon after the incident at RAF Fairford, shows an extraordinary lack of judgment.”
Family safety concerns persist
Harry has long voiced worries about his family’s security, even before the couple returned to the United Kingdom in late August. Earlier this month, the Sussexes moved Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, from a previous school just days into the term, citing practical security considerations.
When Harry and Meghan stepped back from official royal duties in 2020, the British government reduced the level of taxpayer‑funded protection they received. The duke challenged that decision in the courts for several years, but the Home Office maintained that it was not appropriate for wealthy individuals to purchase protective services from specialist police officers.
Calls for a new risk assessment
The latest school‑yard incident comes as the couple awaits an official risk assessment following their return from Montecito, California. According to The Telegraph, authorities have asked the Sussexes to provide detailed information about their daily routines – including school runs, regular addresses, and travel routes – to help evaluate any changes to the level of threat they face.
British media outlets have refrained from identifying the school’s location or the Sussexes’ residence, respecting a request from the Independent Press Standards Organisation. However, those guidelines do not bind international outlets such as CNN.
Historical context of paparazzi pressure
Harry frequently draws parallels between the current media pressure on his family and the tragic 1997 car crash that claimed the life of his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, while paparazzi pursued her vehicle. The Sussexes argue that the relentless pursuit of photographs endangers not only public figures but also innocent children.
While CNN has reached out to UK police for comment, no official response has been released at this time.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
