The Metropolitan Police says 146 people have now come forward to report crimes linked to former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed, more than doubling the number since last October. The investigation, which includes allegations of sexual assault and rape, is also examining whether others may face charges for enabling his alleged offences.
In a video update to victims, Detective Inspector Karen Khan confirmed that both women and men had reported crimes, with new witnesses also providing evidence. She said the force was working with international partners, including foreign police agencies, but stressed that the “sheer number” of survivors made it “difficult” to estimate when the inquiry would conclude.
The Met is additionally reviewing how it handled historic allegations against Al Fayed, who died in 2023 aged 94, and is investigating at least five other individuals in connection with the case. The force acknowledged some victims remain reluctant to engage due to a lack of trust in police.
Last month, officers wrote to alleged victims to apologise, admitting it was “truly sorry” that Al Fayed would never face justice. The force has pledged that current investigations into rape and sexual offences now put “victim-survivors at the heart of our response” with a stronger focus on suspects.
Harrods, owned by Al Fayed from 1985 to 2010, launched a compensation scheme in April following a BBC documentary, Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods, which heard testimony from more than 20 former employees. The store said over 100 victims have entered the scheme, which remains open until 31 March 2026. Eligible applicants may receive up to £385,000 with medical assessment or £150,000 without, alongside written or in-person apologies.
The BBC investigation revealed Al Fayed had faced allegations from 21 women before his death, yet was never charged. In October, police confirmed a further 40 new allegations spanning 1979 to 2013. Two complaints about the Met’s handling of past allegations are currently being investigated under the direction of the Independent Office for Police Conduct.