The Metropolitan Police investigation into former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed has received reports of crimes from 146 people, with both women and men coming forward alongside new witnesses providing evidence. The figure was disclosed in a video update sent to alleged victims this week, highlighting the expanding scale of the probe into the businessman who died in 2023 aged 94.
Investigation widens to include enablers
Scotland Yard is conducting a comprehensive investigation that extends beyond Al Fayed’s alleged crimes to examine potential facilitators and enablers who may have assisted the former Harrods boss. In November, detectives announced they were investigating more than five individuals who could have facilitated Al Fayed’s alleged sexual abuse of dozens of women and girls across a period spanning 1977 to 2014.
The force is also examining whether any police misconduct or corruption occurred during previous investigations, following reports that officers were accused of taking bribes to help Al Fayed persecute staff and avoid accusations of abuse. This internal review adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing probe.
Official apology and acknowledgement
Scotland Yard issued a formal apology to alleged victims last month, with Detective Chief Superintendent Angela Craggs writing to acknowledge the distress suffered by those who came forward. In a letter leaked to the BBC, she stated she was “acutely aware the case is especially distressing to all those who have suffered,” adding her regret that “the main suspect will now never directly face justice for his crimes.”
The apology represents a significant acknowledgement from the Metropolitan Police of the gravity of the allegations and the impact on survivors, particularly given that Al Fayed’s death in 2023 means he cannot face criminal proceedings.
Ongoing support for victims
The Metropolitan Police confirmed it will continue providing written and video updates to victims over the coming months as the investigation progresses. A force spokesperson emphasised that their approach to investigating rape and sexual offences has undergone substantial transformation, with victim-survivors now placed at the heart of their response.
The police continue to encourage anyone with information to come forward, whether they were directly affected by Al Fayed’s alleged actions or have knowledge of others who may have been involved in facilitating offences. The force stressed that its investigative methods have “moved on immeasurably” since the historical period under scrutiny.
Harrods redress scheme response
More than 100 survivors of alleged sexual abuse by Al Fayed have entered Harrods’ redress scheme, according to statements from the luxury department store last month. This parallel process runs alongside the criminal investigation, providing a separate avenue for those seeking acknowledgement and compensation.
The redress scheme represents Harrods’ attempt to address the legacy of Al Fayed’s ownership period, though the store has faced criticism for its handling of the situation and questions about what management knew about the allegations during his tenure.
Criminal justice implications
The investigation faces unique challenges given that the primary suspect cannot face prosecution, with focus shifting to potential accomplices and systemic failures that may have enabled the alleged crimes. The probe’s scope includes examining whether institutional processes at both Harrods and within law enforcement facilitated or failed to prevent the alleged abuse.
The Metropolitan Police acknowledged it cannot comment further whilst criminal proceedings remain possible against other individuals, but committed to providing updates where this would not jeopardise ongoing investigations or potential prosecutions of those who may have assisted or enabled the alleged offending.
REFH – Newshub, August 14, 2025
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