A BBC investigation has uncovered that Jeffrey Epstein rented four flats in the affluent London areas of Kensington and Chelsea, where he housed several women he allegedly abused. Six victims have now come forward, some of whom were brought from Russia and Eastern Europe and coerced into recruiting others. These women were frequently transported to Paris via Eurostar to visit Epstein.
Missed opportunities for investigation
Despite reports made to the Metropolitan Police in 2015 and 2020, no UK police investigation was launched into Epstein's activities. The Met stated that 'other international authorities were best placed' to investigate. The BBC tracked Epstein's activities through credit card bills and other documents, revealing over 120 UK-linked flights and payments for women's studies in London.
Outrage and calls for public inquiry
Human rights lawyers and survivors have expressed outrage over the missed opportunities for investigation. Calls are now being made for a public inquiry into what went wrong. The investigation highlights the systemic failures that allowed Epstein to continue his activities in the UK without legal consequences.
