Three Women Interviewed Over Alleged Facilitation of Abuse by Mohamed Al Fayed
Three women, aged in their 40s, 50s, and 60s, have been interviewed under caution on suspicion of facilitating alleged sexual abuse by the late Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of Harrods. The investigation relates to one of the most serious sexual abuse scandals in Britain, spanning over four decades.
Scotland Yard has reported that the number of victims linked to the case has reached 154 women. These individuals are believed to have suffered rape, sexual assault, or sexual exploitation by Al Fayed or through human trafficking.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the three female suspects were questioned under caution within the last two weeks. The allegations include aiding and abetting rape and sexual assault, assisting the commission of sexual offences, and human trafficking for sexual exploitation.
“They were questioned on suspicion of the following offences; aiding and abetting rape and sexual assault, assisting the commission of sexual offences, human trafficking for sexual exploitation.”
Police have not made any arrests at this stage. However, understands that detectives have identified several additional suspects who are expected to be questioned in the coming months regarding their possible involvement in facilitating or enabling the abuse.
Investigation Progress and Police Statements
Commander Angela Craggs of the Metropolitan Police emphasized the importance of victims in the ongoing investigation. She stated:
“Victims remain at the centre of this investigation. Today’s update marks an important step in a complex and far-reaching investigation.
“While Al Fayed is no longer alive to face prosecution, we have always been determined to bring anyone who is suspected to have played a part in his offending to justice.
“We encourage anyone with information, whether you were directly affected by Mohamed Al Fayed actions or have concerns about others who may have been involved or committed offences, to contact us. Information can also be shared anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.”
Mohamed Al Fayed died in 2023 at the age of 94. Allegations against him include accusations that over a period of approximately 40 years, he used his wealth and influence to commit sexual offences, with his youngest victim reportedly as young as 13 years old.
His death means he cannot be prosecuted, but police, facing criticism for previously missing signs of his offending, are actively pursuing those who may have assisted or enabled his actions, aiming to bring them to justice.
The alleged offences span from 1977 to 2014, with the Metropolitan Police estimating that around 400 offences may have been committed during this time.
Before his death, 21 allegations were made to the police regarding Al Fayed, but he evaded prosecution.
Authorities have reviewed over 50,000 pages of evidence, including victim and impact statements. They have also retrieved substantial material from earlier reports about Al Fayed stored in police archives.
Victim Compensation and Ongoing Inquiry
Harrods has established a compensation scheme for victims, which remains open until 31 March. The owners of the luxury London store have stated that they are committed to supporting those affected.
The Metropolitan Police added:
“Over the past 18 months, officers have taken detailed accounts from victims and witnesses to build a comprehensive picture of the alleged offending.
“Information shared during these conversations, together with continued partnership work across the United Kingdom and overseas, has broadened the scope of the inquiry to cover all reported offences including human trafficking.”
