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theguardian.com

Al Fayed Sex Assault Allegations: Police Referrals to Watchdog

Scotland Yard refers cases to the police watchdog concerning complaints about the Metropolitan Police's handling of sexual offence allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed.

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United Kingdom

UkInvestigationSexual AssaultPoliceAllegationsWatchdog

Scotland YardMetropolitan PoliceIndependent Office For Police Conduct (Iopc)HarrodsJustice For Harrods Survivors Group

Mohamed Al FayedCommander Stephen ClaymanLindsay

What prompted Scotland Yard to refer two cases to the police watchdog?: Scotland Yard referred two cases to the police watchdog regarding complaints about the Metropolitan Police's handling of sexual offence allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed. The complaints concern investigations from 2008 and 2013, focusing on the quality of the investigations and the leaking of details in the 2013 case.
What is the role of the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) in this matter?: The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is assessing the two complaints referred by the Met Police. The IOPC will determine what further action is needed based on their assessment of the information provided by the Met Police.
What is the Metropolitan Police doing regarding allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed?: The Metropolitan Police is actively reviewing 21 allegations against Al Fayed, made before his death, to determine if better investigative steps could have been taken. They are committed to assessing new allegations and ensuring justice, while also addressing any failings in previous investigations.
What is the response of some former Harrods staff to the allegations against Al Fayed?: Former Harrods staff who were sexually abused by Al Fayed are calling for a boycott of the store, citing Harrods' role in enabling the abuse. They feel that the store should be held accountable for its complicity.
How many people have contacted lawyers with allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed, and what is Harrods' involvement?: Lawyers have been contacted by 421 people alleging rape or sexual assault by Al Fayed. The allegations are being investigated by the police, and Harrods is settling hundreds of related claims.

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