Met Police Review 60 Allegations Against Mohamed al Fayed

The Metropolitan Police in the UK have initiated a comprehensive review after facing criticism regarding their treatment of multiple allegations against Mohamed al Fayed, a prominent billionaire who died in 2023. A total of 21 women came forward between 2005 and 2023 with various allegations, including rape and sexual assault. However, the police only submitted two cases to the Crown Prosecution Service, which ultimately decided not to proceed due to a lack of sufficient evidence for a conviction. In addition to the initial allegations, a BBC documentary featuring testimonies from women who accused Fayed of abuse has prompted the emergence of an additional 60 allegations. Former inspector of constabulary Zoe Billingham highlighted the troubling reality that so many women reported similar allegations against a powerful individual without the police taking decisive action years prior. The police have publicly acknowledged the necessity of a thorough review to give voice to potential victims and ensure appropriate support is offered. The commanding officer emphasized their commitment to exploring new lines of inquiry while reviewing existing information. The case raises significant questions about the police's approach towards victims of similar allegations and whether cultural attitudes have changed regarding the seriousness of such cases. This ongoing review aims to address these concerns and prevent future mishandling of similar situations.