Metropolitan Police Investigates Sexual Assault Allegations Against Late Harrods Owner Mohamed Al Fayed
The Metropolitan Police in London announced on November 27 that a new investigation has been launched into sexual assault claims against the late Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of Harrods. This investigation has already identified 90 victims. This development follows a BBC documentary aired in September, which detailed numerous allegations of rape and sexual assault against the Egyptian billionaire, who passed away in August last year at the age of 94.
Since the documentary's release, more than 400 women and witnesses have come forward with allegations of sexual misconduct against Al Fayed, raising significant concerns about how the London police force managed similar complaints over the years. The Met has received numerous reports, with some victims detailing multiple offenses, in response to a renewed public appeal for information.
In its recent statement, the Metropolitan Police emphasized that a dedicated unit is reviewing all reports and is committed to pursuing all reasonable lines of inquiry. Previously, the force had identified 60 potential victims but stated that detectives are now investigating individuals associated with Al Fayed to determine what roles those individuals may have played in facilitating or assisting any offenses.
The investigation also includes a thorough review of previous investigations to identify any 'missed opportunities’ in handling these serious allegations. The police have already combed through more than 50,000 pages of evidence, which include victim testimonies and impact statements.
Commander Stephen Clayman, of the Met's Specialist Crime Command, highlighted that the investigation's purpose is to amplify the voices of survivors, even in the absence of Al Fayed, who cannot be prosecuted posthumously. He asserted that the police force remains determined to pursue any individuals suspected of being complicit in Al Fayed's offenses, aiming to establish justice for all victims.
Acknowledging the historical concerns regarding the trust and confidence in the police's handling of such cases, Clayman stated that the force is committed to rebuilding public trust through integrity and thoroughness in addressing these serious allegations. Furthermore, it was revealed that earlier this month, the Metropolitan Police referred itself to the UK police watchdog in response to complaints from two women regarding its handling of investigations into Al Fayed’s alleged abuses.
Additional complaints have surfaced recently against Al Fayed's late brother, Salah Fayed, who shared ownership of Harrods and passed away in 2010. Meanwhile, The New York Times has reported claims from a victim who accuses another brother, Ali Fayed, aged 80, of being aware of the trafficking of women. These allegations against the Fayed family have sparked renewed scrutiny and highlight the pressing need for accountability within institutions that might have historically overlooked such serious accusations.
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