Over 400 Individuals Accuse Mohamed Al Fayed of Sexual Abuse
Allegations Span Decades Involving Former Harrods Owner Across Multiple Locations
More than 400 alleged victims or witnesses have reported sexual misconduct claims against Mohamed Al Fayed, former owner of Harrods, to legal representatives connected with the Justice for Harrods Survivors group.
The allegations describe incidents of abuse at various properties owned by Al Fayed, including Fulham FC, the Ritz Hotel Paris, and Harrods.
After Al Fayed's death last year at the age of 94, a BBC documentary released in September exposed accusations from over 20 women of sexual assault occurring over a span of more than thirty years.
Since then, numerous other women have come forward, alleging assault, harassment, and rape during their employment under Al Fayed.
A compensation scheme has been set up by Harrods, which is settling over 250 claims from individuals asserting they were attacked by Al Fayed, separate from the ongoing legal case against the department store.
The store's new ownership has stated their shock at the allegations and is investigating possible involvement by any current staff.
On Thursday, the Justice for Harrods Survivors group announced its formal legal proceedings by sending a letter of claim to Harrods.
Among the 421 claims, many are tied to incidents at Harrods, but Fulham FC and the Ritz Paris also appear in the allegations.
Survivors from the UK, America, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Asia are involved in the claims.
During a central London press conference, a video of Ronnie Gibbons, a former Fulham women's captain, highlighted her allegations against Al Fayed.
Lawyers disclosed plans to lodge hundreds more claims shortly, as they continue working with prominent legal expertise and significant financial backing.
Dean Armstrong KC, part of the legal team for Justice for Harrods Survivors, emphasized the support and resources available to pursue these claims, urging institutions like Harrods, the Al Fayed estate, and Fulham FC to respond appropriately.