Harrods is conducting an investigation into the involvement of current employees regarding serious accusations against its late former owner, Mohamed Al Fayed.
- The BBC reported that 20 ex-employees accused Al Fayed of rape and sexual assault.
- Five of these former staff members claimed they were raped by Al Fayed.
- The retailer is working closely with the Metropolitan Police for this investigation.
- Harrods has set up a non-executive committee to review these serious allegations.
Harrods is actively investigating whether any current employees were involved in the grave allegations of rape and sexual assault against its late former owner, Mohamed Al Fayed. This investigation follows a report by the BBC in which 20 former Harrods employees accused Al Fayed of such offences. Among these allegations, five ex-staff members explicitly stated that they were raped by him while employed at the prestigious London store.
The company has confirmed that it is in direct communication with the Metropolitan Police. This partnership aims to ensure a thorough inspection into whether any current Harrods employees might have been directly or indirectly involved in Al Fayed’s alleged misconduct. Harrods has emphasised the ongoing nature of this internal review, which aims to uncover any connections to the allegations.
In a statement, Harrods acknowledged that their due diligence process involves an internal review supported by external counsel. This review strives to determine the extent of any involvement by current employees. Furthermore, the board of Harrods has appointed a non-executive committee to delve deeper into these issues, illustrating the seriousness with which the retailer is addressing the accusations.
More than 100 women have come forward with allegations against Al Fayed, many of whom were reportedly assisted by current and former employees in these claims. Alleged victims have asserted that Harrods workers were complicit in his actions by helping ‘cherry-pick’ young women, further complicating the institution’s potential liability in this matter.
Harrods remains committed to thoroughly investigating these serious allegations to uphold its values and ensure justice is served.
