Victims in France Demand Investigation into Mohamed Al Fayed's Practices

Recent allegations have emerged against Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of the Paris Ritz, involving multiple claims of sexual assault and rape. More than five women have come forward since a BBC documentary highlighted these accusations, prompting calls for a formal investigation by French prosecutors. Kristina Svensson, one of the victims, has stated that a culture of silence, akin to a mafia code, allowed such behavior to persist unchecked. She believes that many individuals who worked at the Ritz during the late 1990s were aware of Al Fayed's actions but chose to remain silent. Legal experts, including Anne-Claire Le Jeune, emphasize the moral obligation of prosecutors to investigate these claims, especially given the number of women involved. They hope that increased media attention will encourage more victims to come forward. The Ritz hotel, still owned by the Al Fayed family, has issued a brief statement condemning inappropriate behavior but has not addressed the specific allegations. The allegations have reignited discussions about accountability and the need for a thorough investigation into the management practices at the Ritz, which some have described as cult-like. Victims are now in their 50s and feel empowered to speak out, motivated by a desire to prevent future generations from experiencing similar abuse. As the situation develops, the focus remains on whether French authorities will take action and how many more individuals may come forward with their stories of abuse at the hands of Al Fayed.