The Justice for Harrods Survivors group has reported that more than 220 individuals have come forward with allegations against the late Mohamed Fayed. This development follows a recent BBC investigation into the former Harrods and Fulham Football Club owner, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 94.
Dean Armstrong KC, Bruce Drummond, Maria Mulla, and Gloria Allred, representing the survivors' group, stated that the number of women feeling safe to share their experiences is increasing daily. The accusations against Fayed include five rape allegations and multiple claims of sexual abuse, spanning from 1979 to 2013.
A spokesperson for Justice for Harrods Survivors revealed that the group currently represents 71 clients and is processing an additional 220 inquiries. The organization welcomed Harrods' decision not to enforce any non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) related to previous settlements concerning abuse allegations.
"We hope that we are correct to assume that Harrods will, similarly, not be raising limitation as a defence, or any similar legal impediments to the bringing of claims by Survivors which might otherwise be time-barred."
Harrods confirmed to The Telegraph that it would not seek to enforce any NDAs related to alleged historical sexual abuse by Fayed that were entered into during his ownership of the store. This cooperation is seen as a significant step in allowing survivors to come forward without fear of legal repercussions.
The Metropolitan Police has announced that it is investigating new allegations against Fayed, in addition to prior reports. The force is conducting comprehensive reviews of all existing allegations and contacting lawyers representing alleged victims to ensure they have the opportunity to report any offences.
Mohamed Fayed, born in Alexandria, Egypt, in 1929, was a controversial figure in British business and society. He acquired Harrods in 1985 and owned it until 2010. Fayed also owned Fulham Football Club from 1997 to 2013 and was known for his involvement in various high-profile events and scandals.
Throughout his life, Fayed was denied British citizenship multiple times and was involved in the "cash-for-questions" scandal in the 1990s. He was also known for his conspiracy theories surrounding the death of his son, Dodi Fayed, and Princess Diana in 1997.
The ongoing investigation and the increasing number of allegations highlight the complex legacy of Mohamed Fayed, who was once awarded the Legion of Honour by France in 1989 and established the Al Fayed Charitable Foundation in 1987. As the case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of providing a safe environment for survivors to come forward and seek justice.