Met Police ensuring no new lines of enquiry after allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed

In the wake of allegations of sexual abuse by Mohamed Al Fayed, the Met Police say they're exploring whether any other people "could be pursued for criminal offences".

Five women say they were raped by the late Harrods owner.

In a statement the force are asking any potential victims who haven't come forward yet to do so.

"We recognise the significant step many people have already taken in reporting allegations, and know there are many reasons others may have not yet come forward.

We must ensure every victim-survivor who has reported offences or is considering reporting has the confidence and ability to speak to us.

Officers are currently making contact with other organisations, including lawyers representing individuals whose allegations have featured in recent media coverage, to ensure they have the opportunity to speak with us and report any offences.

Additional, specialist support for those who have made contact with us in the past, along with those who come forward, has been put in place and this will continue as our enquiries progress.

This support will be provided by specially trained officers with experience in dealing with sexual offences who will work with victim-survivors and provide links to external support agencies should this be required.

It is important to make clear at this stage that it is not possible for criminal proceedings to be brought against someone who has died.

This means there is no prospect of any conviction relating to Al Fayed himself.

However, we must ensure we fully explore whether any other individuals could be pursued for any criminal offences.

As such, we are carrying out full reviews of all existing allegations reported to us about Al Fayed to ensure there are no new lines of enquiry based on new information which has emerged."

Commander Stephen Clayman said:

“We recognise the significance of the allegations made against Mohamed Al Fayed and the impact this has had on those affected. It is vital that any victims have a voice and are able to report any allegations if they have not done so before, and know that they will be taken seriously. We have specialist teams to ensure all those victims who make contact with us are supported in the best way possible.

“I understand that for many years many people have sought answers in relation to this case. We will do everything possible to update on our progress when we can, but it is crucial we do this thoroughly and we do it right.”

Earlier the current managing director of Harrods apologised and said the business "failed our colleagues" following sexual misconduct allegations about former owner Mohamed Al Fayed.

Michael Ward said in a statement that it is clear Mr Al Fayed "presided over a toxic culture of secrecy, intimidation, fear of repercussion and sexual misconduct".

Mr Ward, who worked for Mr Al Fayed for four years, said he was "not aware of his criminality and abuse" and described it as a "shameful period in the business' history".

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