A recent investigation by the BBC has uncovered serious allegations of sexual abuse against Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of luxury department store Harrods, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 94. Multiple women have accused Al Fayed of rape and attempted rape during their employment, with many stating they felt unable to report the incidents until recently.
Background on Al Fayed’s Influence
At the time of the alleged abuse, Al Fayed was a prominent public figure, owning not only Harrods but also the Ritz Paris hotel and Fulham FC. His connections with senior political figures and celebrities contributed to an atmosphere of fear and silence among victims.
Key Timeline of Allegations
The investigation reveals a timeline of accusations spanning nearly 40 years:
- 1985: Al Fayed purchases Harrods and assumes the role of chairman.
- 1986-1991: Allegations surface from a woman known as “Alice,” who claims she was sexually abused while working as Al Fayed’s personal assistant. Another assistant, “Sophia,” reports multiple attempted rapes during her employment.
- 1990s: A woman identified as “Rachel” alleges that Al Fayed raped her in his luxury apartment.
- 1995: Vanity Fair publishes allegations against Al Fayed, leading to a libel lawsuit that uncovers further claims of sexual misconduct.
- 1997: Al Fayed acquires Fulham FC, and more allegations continue to arise.
- 2008-2010: Allegations from various women are reported, including claims of assault during business trips.
- 2023: Harrods begins settling claims with women alleging sexual assault by Al Fayed.
- 2024: The BBC documentary “Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods” airs, featuring testimonies from over 20 women, five of whom claim they were raped.
Response from Harrods
In response to the investigation, Harrods has accepted vicarious liability for Al Fayed’s actions and has reached settlements with many victims. The current owners expressed their condemnation of Al Fayed’s behavior, calling it an abuse of power and acknowledging the failures that allowed such misconduct to continue.
Attorney Gloria Allred, representing some of the victims, emphasized the severity of the allegations, stating that Harrods was “a toxic, unsafe and abusive environment” under Al Fayed’s leadership. She highlighted the systemic nature of the abuse and called for accountability.
As the investigation unfolds, the legacy of these allegations raises critical questions about the treatment of victims and the need for greater accountability in high-profile cases of abuse.
