John Lyttle, former CEO of a major fashion retailer, has stepped down following serious allegations.
- Reports claim that Lyttle cited stalking and corporate espionage as reasons for his departure.
- Police investigations in Manchester and Kent are focusing on stalking claims concerning Lyttle and current executives.
- The allegations involve suspicious activities including trespassers and unregistered surveillance devices.
- The situation remains under police investigation with no arrests made yet.
John Lyttle, who recently served as the CEO of a prominent fashion company, unexpectedly resigned from his position earlier this year. The resignation came amidst serious accusations of stalking and corporate espionage, as reported by several executives from the group. Lyttle, who departed from the e-tailer on 18 October after serving for five years, is understood to have mentioned these concerns as significant factors influencing his decision to step down.
Following the news of his resignation, police forces in Manchester and Kent initiated investigations into reported stalking incidents. These incidents are believed to involve not only Lyttle but also the new CEO, Dan Finley, and the company’s co-founder, Mahmud Kamani. The allegations suggest that these individuals have been trailed by unidentified men on public transport and in public areas across London, Manchester, and Kent over recent months.
Furthermore, the situation escalated when Lyttle reportedly encountered two intruders on his property. In a separate incident, Kamani was reportedly assaulted by one of these individuals. The company’s concerns were further heightened with the discovery of unregistered surveillance equipment outside its Manchester headquarters on 13 November. This device, which was allegedly used to record staff entering and leaving the premises, has been turned over to the police for further investigation.
The company has taken the matter seriously, involving both the Information Commissioner’s Office and the Greater Manchester council in the investigation. Despite the gravity of the situation, the identity of those responsible for these acts, as well as any parties potentially commissioning them, remains unknown. Consequently, no arrests have been made up to this point.
A spokesperson for the company stated, “It would be inappropriate to comment whilst a police investigation is ongoing,” indicating the sensitivity and ongoing nature of the investigations.
The ongoing police investigation into these serious allegations continues, with no individuals yet apprehended.