Three women have been formally questioned by police officers in connection with allegations of human trafficking and facilitating rape as part of the ongoing investigation into former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the suspects, aged in their 40s, 50s, and 60s, were interviewed under caution between February 25 and March 5.
Scale of Allegations Against Former Harrods Boss
The police force has revealed that a total of 154 individuals have now come forward to report allegations of rape, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking as part of their comprehensive probe into Al Fayed. This represents a significant increase in the number of accusers since the investigation began.
Commander Angela Craggs stated on Friday: "Victims remain at the centre of this investigation. Today's update marks an important step in a complex and far-reaching investigation." She added: "While Al Fayed is no longer alive to face prosecution, we have always been determined to bring anyone who is suspected to have played a part in his offending to justice."
Details of Police Interviews
The three female suspects were questioned on suspicion of specific offences including aiding and abetting rape and sexual assault, assisting the commission of sexual offences, and human trafficking for sexual exploitation. Police emphasized that no arrests have been made at this stage, but the interviews represent a significant development in the case.
Officers have been gathering accounts from Al Fayed's accusers and other witnesses over the past eighteen months. Information obtained during these interviews has led investigators to include alleged human trafficking within the scope of their investigation.
Legal Pressure and Historical Context
On Wednesday, lawyers representing some of Al Fayed's accusers urged police to treat the scandal primarily as "trafficking allegations," highlighting the systematic nature of the alleged offences. The Metropolitan Police had previously indicated they were investigating individuals surrounding the businessman who might have enabled him to carry out more than 400 sexual misconduct crimes.
These alleged crimes are claimed to have spanned nearly four decades between 1977 and 2014. Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of the prestigious Harrods department store, died in 2023 at the age of 94, meaning he cannot face prosecution personally.
Ongoing Investigation Focus
The police investigation continues to focus on identifying and interviewing anyone who may have facilitated or participated in the alleged offences. Commander Craggs emphasized the determination of law enforcement to pursue justice despite Al Fayed's death, stating that the investigation remains active and thorough.
The case represents one of the most significant historical sexual abuse investigations in recent years, involving allegations against a prominent business figure with international recognition. Police have not provided a timeline for when the investigation might conclude, but have assured the public that they are following all available leads.
