Criminal Investigation Launched Into Alleged Accomplices of Mohamed Al Fayed's Abuse

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The Metropolitan Police have launched a criminal investigation into individuals accused of enabling Mohamed Al Fayed in carrying out decades of sexual abuse, as 90 additional victims have recently come forward. Scotland Yard has identified more than five suspects alleged to have assisted the late Harrods owner in what detectives described as “horrendous abuse.”  

 

The investigation marks a significant escalation following the emergence of allegations from a total of 111 victims, the youngest reportedly just 13 years old. Before Al Fayed’s death in 2023 at the age of 94, police had been aware of 21 allegations against him between 2005 and 2023, including four accusations of rape, 16 of sexual assault, and one related to trafficking. Despite being arrested in 2013 over a rape claim, Al Fayed was never charged.  

The case gained renewed attention in September after the BBC aired an investigation into the Egyptian businessman’s alleged predatory behavior. The broadcast prompted a surge of allegations, with 150 individuals coming forward to provide information, including 90 new victims. Detectives are now examining claims of rape, sexual assault, and trafficking that span nearly four decades, from 1977 to 2014.  

 

Scotland Yard is conducting an internal review of how it handled allegations against Al Fayed during his lifetime. Questions have arisen about potential corruption within the police force, with reports suggesting officers may have accepted bribes to ignore claims of abuse, particularly from Harrods employees. All previous investigations into Al Fayed are being re-evaluated as part of the ongoing inquiry.  

 

In a statement, the Metropolitan Police revealed the scale of the investigation, noting that detectives have already examined 50,000 pages of evidence. The force admitted shortcomings in supporting victims in the past, with a spokesperson saying, “We know that contact with and support for some victims at the time could have been improved. Only after completing this comprehensive review will we fully understand what could have been done differently.”  

 

The Crown Prosecution Service had been approached five times between 2005 and 2023 regarding Al Fayed, yet no charges were ever filed. Now, the investigation is not only focused on Al Fayed’s alleged crimes but also on those suspected of facilitating his abuse. Detective Chief Superintendent James Clayman stated that the inquiry aims to determine the roles individuals played in enabling Al Fayed’s offending and the opportunities they may have had to protect victims.  

 

Appealing directly to victims, Clayman said, “I know you may have faced years of silence or disbelief, but you are not alone. We are here, ready to support you and ensure your voice is heard.”  

 

This comprehensive investigation reflects Scotland Yard’s commitment to addressing past failures and seeking justice for victims. The inquiry underscores the importance of accountability, not just for the accused but also for any individuals who may have played a part in perpetuating the abuse.

 

Based on a report by BBC 2024-11-29