British police watchdogs have initiated an investigation into the Metropolitan Police's handling of sexual assault allegations against the late Mohamed Al Fayed, former owner of Harrods. This inquiry will be overseen by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), following an increase in complaints from victims and public concern surrounding the Metropolitan Police's delay in addressing these serious accusations.

Steve Noonan, the IOPC's director of operations, emphasized the heightened public concern about Al Fayed's case, citing a significant number of allegations that emerged during his life. He stated, "It’s important that an investigation is carried out into these complaints to identify if there were any missed opportunities or failures by officers to properly investigate these reports made back in 2008" (The Guardian).

Recent findings have revealed that the police are currently reviewing 21 allegations of sexual assault against Al Fayed, who passed away in 2023. The cases date back to various years, with two specific complaints from 2008 and 2013 receiving renewed attention due to their troubling nature. The 2013 complaint also includes accusations of how details regarding these allegations were leaked to the media (AP News).

Fayed was subject to police questioning in the past, specifically in 2008 regarding alleged sexual abuse, yet he was never charged. Al Fayed's profile, which was further magnified after his son Dodi's tragic death alongside Princess Diana in 1997, has now been tarnished by claims of sexual misconduct reported by over 400 women (The Guardian).

The investigation's findings could reveal missed opportunities to hold Al Fayed accountable while he was alive, as police have faced criticism for their inadequate response to the numerous allegations over the decades. As the inquiry progresses, many victims are stepping forward, with Harrods asserting that over 250 individuals are involved in a compensation process related to the former owner.

The outcomes of these investigations may not only hold past police actions accountable but could also pave the way for justice for the victims who suffered at the hands of Al Fayed.