Three women have been interrogated by investigators on suspicion of facilitating the abuse carried out by Mohamed al Fayed. They were probed regarding human trafficking and aiding in sexual assault after accusations surfaced that the former Harrods boss targeted women and girls from 1977 to 2014. Authorities interviewed three women, aged in their 40s, 50s, and 60s, between February 25 and March 5.
No arrests have been executed, and the inquiry is ongoing. A total of 154 individuals have approached the police, reporting instances of sexual misconduct, rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking.
Commander Angela Craggs emphasized the priority given to the victims in the investigation, stating, “Today’s update signifies a significant advancement in this intricate and extensive probe. Despite Al Fayed’s demise, we are resolute in bringing to justice anyone suspected of involvement in his criminal activities.”
Craggs further urged individuals with information related to Mohamed Al Fayed’s actions or potential accomplices to come forward. Information can be shared anonymously with Crimestoppers. The Metropolitan Police faced criticism two years ago when it was revealed that 21 alleged victims had lodged complaints against Al Fayed during his lifetime, but no legal actions were taken.
Former female employees of Harrods alleged that they were compelled to undergo invasive medical tests for sexually transmitted diseases by a doctor, who then disclosed the results to Al Fayed. Under his 25-year reign at Harrods, the workplace was described as having a toxic environment where young staff members were procured to satisfy his sexual desires.
Allegations against Al Fayed include the deployment of Harrods staff, a former senior Met Police officer, attorneys, and public relations agents to intimidate women, as well as spying through hidden cameras and bugs. Comparisons have been made between Al Fayed and notorious sex offenders such as Jimmy Savile and Jeffrey Epstein, with numerous women coming forward following a BBC documentary in 2024.
During a press conference, Barrister Dean Armstrong KC stated that the case combined elements reminiscent of high-profile offenders like Jimmy Savile, Jeffrey Epstein, and Harvey Weinstein. Another barrister, Bruce Drummond, described the case as one of the most egregious instances of corporate sexual exploitation witnessed, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
