Met Police refers itself to watchdog over handling of sexual assault claims against…

November 8, 2024, 6:57 PM

Police bosses have referred the force to the police watchdog over its handling of two sex abuse charges against Mohamed Al Fayed.

The Met said it had received complaints from two women about previous police investigations into the claims against the former owner of Harrods and Fulham FC.

These complaints relate to investigations from 2008 and 2013 and address concerns about how well police responded and, in the case of the 2013 investigation, how details were made public.

The police are investigating more than twenty claims against Al Fayed, who died last year.

Separately, lawyers for alleged victims of Mohamed Al Fayed said last week that they had been contacted by 400 people after an appeal.

Commander Stephen Clayman, of the Met’s Specialist Crime team, said on Friday: “We are actively investigating 21 allegations reported to the Metropolitan Police before the death of Mohamed Al Fayed, as well as associated police investigations, to determine whether there are any additional research steps are necessary. are available or there are things we could have done better.

“This process remains active and we are committed to reviewing all new allegations, pursuing justice where possible and addressing any shortcomings transparently.

“In recent weeks, two victim-survivors have raised concerns about the way their allegations were handled when they were first reported, and it is only appropriate that the IOPC reviews these complaints. While we cannot change the past, we are resolute in our goal to provide the highest standard of service and support to everyone who contacts us.”

I encourage anyone with relevant information, whether you have been personally affected or have knowledge of others who may have facilitated Al Fayed’s actions, to contact us. Our priority remains to ensure that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of justice.”

Police said they have also received new reports against Al Fayed in recent months, amid renewed media coverage.

Officers said they were investigating to see if anyone else could face criminal charges in connection with the allegations.