Two allegations regarding the Metropolitan Police’s management of accusations against ex-Harrods chief Mohamed Al Fayed are set to undergo scrutiny—this time, internally, but under the oversight of an independent watchdog.
The police force is currently in the process of reviewing a total of 21 allegations that emerged prior to Mr. Al Fayed’s passing in 2023 at the age of 94. In November, they referred two specific cases to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
The IOPC has outlined that the Metropolitan’s Directorate of Professional Standards will carry on with the investigations concerning the complaints, albeit with directives from the watchdog.
Steve Noonan, IOPC’s director of operations, shared, “Our thoughts are with all the victims who bravely came forward regarding their experiences with Mr. Al Fayed.”
He elaborated, stating, “It’s crucial that these allegations are diligently investigated to ascertain whether any crucial opportunities were overlooked or if there were lapses in how officers managed these reports that originated back in 2008.”
“Given that the Met is examining 21 allegations, we felt it necessary to step in and oversee these investigations. This ensures that the scope could broaden beyond just two complaints and facilitates the exchange of information between the Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS) and the ongoing criminal investigation concerning parties who may have enabled or aided the alleged offenses.”
He added, “Rest assured, the complainants will receive regular updates throughout this investigation.”
In a dedicated investigation by the BBC last year, 20 former Harrods staff members recounted harrowing experiences of sexual assault and rape attributed to the businessman at properties in both London and Paris.
Since that documentary aired, a remarkable 90 additional women have reached out to the police, presenting allegations dating back as far as 1977.
Though Mr. Al Fayed faced numerous accusations of sexual misconduct in the past, a police investigation back in 2015 did not culminate in any charges.
Currently, the Metropolitan Police is conducting a comprehensive investigation into the broader claims against him.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
