Met accused of turning a blind eye to Mohamed Al Fayed sex scandal - after police sought prosecutions for just TWO of 21 women who lodged complaints
- Twenty-one women reported sexual assaults by Mohamed Al Fayed to the Metropolitan Police, yet the police sought prosecution for only two cases.
- The Crown Prosecution Service concluded that there was no realistic prospect of conviction based on limited cases investigated.
- The lack of adequate response has sparked criticism regarding the police's culture and treatment of sexual assault allegations, highlighting a need for change.
In the UK, the Metropolitan Police faced criticism after it was revealed that only two out of 21 women who complained about sexual assaults by billionaire Mohamed Al Fayed were considered for prosecution. Al Fayed, who passed away in August 2023 at 94 years old, was accused of serious offenses by numerous women, including allegations of rape and other abusive behaviors dating back to 1977. Despite the gravity of these claims, the police initially sought authorization to charge Al Fayed in only two cases, which the Crown Prosecution Service later determined lacked a realistic chance of conviction. As a result, he was never formally indicted. The lack of action has raised serious questions about the police's approach to investigating allegations of sexual misconduct, particularly when the accused holds significant power. Further complicating the narrative, the BBC reported a surge in additional allegations following a documentary, highlighting the challenges faced by women in coming forward against influential figures. Former police inspector Zoe Billingham expressed her shock at the minimal response and criticized the broader culture within law enforcement regarding how women's allegations are treated. The Met Police has stated they are reviewing new information and continuing their investigation into potential criminal activities related to these long-standing allegations.