Metropolitan Police update: 146 survivors come forward in Al Fayed probe as Harrods scheme opens for more victims
The Metropolitan Police have disclosed that 146 people have now reported crimes linked to the historical allegations against Mohammed Al Fayed, the former Harrods owner who died in 2023 at age 94. In a video update to victims, the force said both women and men had come forward, and a number of new witnesses had also contacted investigators to provide evidence.
The Met is examining how it handled the historical allegations, including sexual assault and rape, and is probing whether other individuals may have enabled or assisted Al Fayed’s behaviour. The investigation has previously said it was looking into at least five people. Detective Inspector Karen Khan, speaking in the update, noted the force is cooperating with international agencies and foreign police forces to gather evidence.
Khan acknowledged the challenge of forecasting when the investigation might conclude, given the large number of survivors who have stepped forward. She urged continued reporting of information from anyone who may have relevant details, while recognizing that some victims remain wary of trusting the police.
Last month the Met apologised to alleged victims, saying it was “truly sorry” for the distress they have suffered because Al Fayed will never face justice. In the latest update, the force highlighted that its approach to investigations has evolved, with teams transforming how rape and sexual offences are pursued. A spokesperson said the Met remains focused on victims and suspects alike, and that it is working with partners across the criminal justice system to keep survivor voices at the centre of the response.
The 146 figure is a sharp rise from 61 reported allegations the Met had cited in October, reflecting an expanding scope of cooperation and outreach. Harrods has previously stated that more than 100 victims of Al Fayed’s abuse entered its compensation scheme in July. The store, which Al Fayed owned from 1985 to 2010, has a compensation program open to new applications until 31 March 2026.
Eligible applicants can receive up to £385,000 in compensation plus treatment costs if they agree to a medical assessment by a consultant psychiatrist, or up to £150,000 without a medical evaluation. Harrods noted that recipients may also have the opportunity for a personal or video apology from a senior Harrods representative, in addition to a written apology.
Context for the disclosures has been sharpened by a BBC documentary and podcast released in September 2024, which brought new attention to the extent of Al Fayed’s predatory behaviour. The programme featured testimony from more than 20 former Harrods employees who described sexual assaults or rape, with dozens more survivors coming forward since.
In response to the BBC report, Harrods’ current owners said they were utterly appalled by the allegations and apologised to victims for the system failures. The Met subsequently revealed that it had been approached by 21 women before Al Fayed’s death, who accused him of sexual offences, including rape, sexual assault, and trafficking, and that he faced no charges during his lifetime. In October, the Met said 40 new allegations—spanning 1979 to 2013—had been received, adding to the 21 previously reported.
Two complaints against the Met Police over its handling of the Al Fayed case are being investigated by the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
What this means for victims and witnesses
– The Met emphasises continued support for those affected and remains open to new information from anyone with knowledge of the case, whether directly involved or aware of others who may have been implicated.
– The case underscores the ongoing push for accountability in historic sexual offences and signals a broader commitment within the criminal justice system to prioritise survivor needs and rigorous investigative standards.
– The Harrods compensation scheme continues to provide a potential route to financial redress and access to support services for eligible victims, with ongoing eligibility for new applicants through 2026.
If you have information related to these matters, you are encouraged to come forward and contact investigators. The updates reflect a growing effort to address decades-old crimes with transparency and survivor-centered approaches, and to pursue accountability where possible. A hopeful note remains that greater awareness and robust investigations can help prevent abuse in all sectors and support those who have suffered.
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