Update in response to accusations against Mohamed Al Fayed

Between 2005 and 2023, the Met received 21 separate charges in total against the late Mohamed Al Fayed.

Investigating officers contacted the CPS for initial investigative advice in relation to 10 of these allegations.

Detectives routinely refer cases to the CPS for early investigative advice to ensure the early development of a joint prosecution strategy. As part of this process, the CPS can offer expertise and advice around the probationary framework.

Based on advice and dialogue with the CPS, no further action was taken in relation to the ten allegations about which officers requested initial investigative advice.

However, there was sufficient evidence to transmit two evidence files to the CPS, relating to two separate allegations. No charges were filed by prosecutors.

The remaining nine allegations were reviewed by officers and no further action was taken. Two of these allegations resulted in no further action as Al Fayed died and therefore there was no prospect of conviction.

Following recent media coverage and public appeals from the Met for people to come forward and speak to police, officers have now been contacted by 60 people who have reported their experiences.

Detectives continue to build a more complete picture around the previous allegations against Al Fayed, along with partners in the criminal justice system. Looking ahead, investigators are reviewing new information that has emerged in an effort to establish whether there are any allegations of criminality that can be made against others who may have had some involvement in any crime.

Commander Stephen Clayman said: “I want to thank those who trusted us and came forward to share their experiences – this will have taken a lot of courage and bravery.

“We recognize the importance of the allegations and it is right that a detailed and thorough review of the previous allegations is carried out. And while we know it is not possible to bring criminal proceedings against someone who has died, our priority is to give a voice to any potential victim-survivors and ensure they receive appropriate care and support.

“We continue to explore a number of new lines of inquiry, thoroughly reviewing any new information and assessing whether there are any allegations of criminality that can be investigated.”

Analysis of previous allegations

The Met received a total of 21 allegations relating to Al Fayed. They are divided as follows:

• Investigators sought investigative advice from the CPS around 10 of these allegations, which subsequently resulted in no further action by police.
• Two allegations were included in two evidence files passed to the CPS. No charges were filed by prosecutors.
• Two allegations were not forwarded to the CPS because Al Fayed had died.
• Seven allegations resulted in no further action taken by police.