Investigation Launched into Met Police’s Management of Complaints Against Mohamed Al Fayed
The Metropolitan Police will conduct its own investigation into two complaints regarding its handling of allegations against former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed, guided by an oversight body.
Currently, the Met is reviewing a total of 21 allegations made before Mr. Al Fayed passed away in 2023 at the age of 94, having referred two of these cases to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) last November.
The IOPC has announced that the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards will carry on its investigation into the complaints, but under the supervision of the watchdog.
Steve Noonan, the IOPC’s director of operations, stated: “Our thoughts are with all the victim-survivors who have reported allegations against Mr. Al Fayed.”
He added: “It is crucial that an inquiry into these complaints takes place to determine whether there were any missed opportunities or failures on the part of officers to adequately investigate reports made back in 2008.”
“We have chosen to oversee these investigations as the Met’s ongoing review of 21 allegations could potentially expand beyond the two complaints, and it will also facilitate information sharing between the Directorate of Professional Standards and the ongoing criminal investigation into those who may have enabled or assisted the alleged offenses.”
“The complainants will receive regular updates throughout the investigation.”
Last year, a special investigation by the BBC revealed that 20 former Harrods employees reported having been sexually assaulted or raped by the businessman at properties in London and Paris.
Following the documentary’s release, 90 additional women reached out to the police with allegations dating back to 1977.
Mr. Al Fayed had previously faced accusations of sexually assaulting and groping multiple women; however, a police investigation in 2015 did not result in any charges.
A broader investigation by the Met into the allegations against Al Fayed is currently underway.
