Online trolls threaten to infiltrate Meghan Markle’s Sydney retreat as security fears grow
The Duchess is due to host a three-day, women-only retreat at a luxury hotel this month.
Online trolls have sparked security fears ahead of Meghan Markle’s upcoming Australian visit, with claims they plan to infiltrate her Sydney wellness retreat and secretly record the event.
The Duchess is due to host a three-day, women-only retreat at a luxury Coogee Beach hotel from April 17 to 19, but concerns are growing over how organisers will manage potential breaches after a series of posts surfaced online.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Meghan Markle faces security threats ahead of Sydney visit
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Some users allege they have secured tickets and intend to attend under false pretences, using hidden recording devices such as Meta glasses.
News.com.au surfaced one post that read: “Just in case if Meghan Markle didn’t despise me enough, she’s about to HATE ME even more. I hatched a plan with a friend who lives in Sydney to attend the best life weekend, they have been accepted & has a spot secured. Good luck figuring out who it is, Meghan.”
The retreat promises “powerful conversations, relaxation, laughter, and unforgettable experiences,” and has attracted more than 300 attendees.
Tickets range from around $1,900 to more than $3,000 for VIP packages, which include a gala dinner and a group photo with Markle.
Prince Harry will also travel to Australia with his wife to speak at a separate summit.
Speaking on Sunrise on Tuesday, Daily Mirror Royal Editor Russell Myers said the couple’s visit has already been overshadowed by negative coverage.
“Unfortunately for Harry and Meghan, there has been a lot of bad press over their upcoming visit down under,” he said from London.
The event has faced scrutiny beyond the security concerns, including early confusion over whether it was being publicly funded, prompting clarification from the couple’s team that the trip is privately backed.
Myers said the visit also highlights a shift in direction for the couple.
“Harry and Meghan are going in pretty different directions. Harry is making a separate speech during his time in Australia,” he said.
Security has long been a sensitive issue for the pair since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, with Prince Harry previously saying he “does not feel safe” returning to the UK due to threats against his family.
Despite the online threats, the event has attracted a lot of interest with organisers saying proceeds from the event will go to charity.
Originally published on Sunrise
