The Metropolitan Police in the UK is looking into 40 new allegations, including instances of rape and sexual assault, involving Mohamed Al Fayed and others from 1979 to 2013.
According to the police force, they have heard from many individuals since last month’s BBC investigation concerning the former owner of Harrods and Fulham FC.
The newly reported 40 allegations involve 40 purported victims and are in addition to claims that authorities were already aware of prior to the BBC’s investigation and documentary, as stated by Scotland Yard.
Prior to this latest media attention, 21 allegations against the late billionaire had resulted in crimes being recorded involving 21 different women from 2005 to 2023.
Scotland Yard approached the Crown Prosecution Service five times between 2005 and 2023, the force revealed, yet no further action was taken against Mr. Al Fayed.
The police indicated that although it is not possible to initiate criminal proceedings against Mr. Al Fayed—who passed away last year at the age of 94—they will “continue to investigate whether any other individuals could face prosecution for any criminal activities.”
Met Commander Stephen Clayman remarked: “Following the airing of the documentary and our recent appeal, detectives have received a significant amount of information, primarily regarding the actions of Mohamed Al Fayed, along with some related to other individuals.
“As a result, we have recorded 40 new allegations involving 40 victim-survivors, concerning offenses like sexual assault and rape spanning from 1979 to 2013. These are in addition to the allegations we were aware of before the broadcast.
“I acknowledge the bravery it takes for individuals to come forward and share their experiences, and I want to assure anyone who has not yet reached out that we have specially trained detectives available to listen and support them.
“All reports will be formally documented and evaluated to identify any criminal allegations that may be actionable. This process will take time, but we are committed to keeping those who contact us informed of any developments.
“We are also working to connect with lawyers representing those who have approached them directly, to ensure they are aware of our request to discuss these matters with the police so that any crimes can be logged and appropriate support can be provided.
“While most of the information we have received pertains to Al Fayed’s ownership of Harrods, we are reaching out to representatives of other organizations associated with Al Fayed to ensure that anyone affected can be identified and has the chance to speak with us.”
