Harrods is in the process of settling more than 250 claims related to alleged sexual misconduct by former owner Mohamed Al Fayed. The London luxury department store has confirmed that it has reached settlements with several individuals who have made accusations against Mr. Al Fayed since last year.
Following the recent BBC documentary titled “Al Fayed: Predator At Harrods,” which aired last month, over 250 people are now engaged in the process with Harrods to settle their claims directly. The documentary featured the accounts of five women who alleged being raped by Mr. Al Fayed, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 94, along with multiple others alleging instances of sexual misconduct.
In response to the claims, Harrods released a statement acknowledging that they have settled a number of claims with women alleging historic sexual misconduct by Mohamed Al Fayed. The number of individuals participating in the settlement process has risen to over 250 since the documentary’s broadcast.
Justice For Harrods Survivors, a support group for those impacted, noted that an increasing number of women are coming forward with their stories on a daily basis. Concerns have been raised about the Metropolitan Police’s handling of the allegations against Mr. Al Fayed, who was also the owner of Fulham FC.
A comprehensive review of the allegations against Mr. Al Fayed is currently underway by the Metropolitan Police. They have faced criticism for their response to women reporting instances of abuse. The police have sought guidance from prosecutors regarding potential charges against Mr. Al Fayed in relation to allegations made by 21 women between 2005 and 2023.
Despite evidence being presented to the Crown Prosecution Service in 2009 and 2015, no legal action was taken due to a lack of prospects for conviction. The police also sought advice on ten additional allegations, with no further action being pursued. Of the 21 complaints, seven did not progress, while two were not pursued following Mr. Al Fayed’s passing last year.
Former inspector of constabulary, Zoe Billingham, criticised the lack of action, questioning why a thorough investigation was not conducted considering the severity of the allegations and the prominence of the accused individual. Mohamed Al Fayed purchased Harrods in 1985 and owned it for 26 years before selling the iconic store to the Qatari royal family in 2010.
Justice For Harrods Survivors has been contacted for their response to the ongoing developments in this case.