Multiple women accuse late billionaire Mohamed Al Fayed of sexual assault. Harrods apologizes and seeks to settle claims quickly for the victims.
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Several former workers from Harrods have come forward with serious claims against Mohamed Al Fayed. He was the Egyptian billionaire who owned the famous department store for over 25 years. More than 20 women spoke to the BBC about their experiences of assault and violence at Al Fayed's properties in London and Paris.
Five of these women said they were raped by Al Fayed. These claims come after a police investigation in 2015 that did not lead to any charges against him. Al Fayed passed away in 2023, but these new claims have brought more attention to his past.
The current owners of Harrods expressed their shock at these allegations. They said they are "utterly appalled" by the reported abuse and offered a sincere apology to the victims.
They admitted that the company failed its employees during Al Fayed's time as owner and stressed their commitment to improving the work environment for everyone.
In July 2023, Harrods began settling claims from women who said they were sexually abused by Al Fayed. This step came after new information about the past allegations.
One woman, who wished to remain anonymous and is called Rachel, shared her painful experience with the BBC. She claimed she was raped after staying at one of Al Fayed's apartments after a late shift.
Rachel said, "I made it obvious that I didn't want that to happen. I did not give consent. I just wanted it to be over." She described her feelings during the incident, saying she could only escape in her mind.
In their statement, Harrods said they disapprove of Al Fayed's actions and called them an abuse of power. They condemned his behavior and recognized that the company let down the women who were victims during that time.
The company also pointed out that it has changed since Al Fayed’s ownership from 1985 to 2010. They have worked hard to make Harrods a better place for employees today, putting their well-being first.
After these historic allegations came to light in 2023, Harrods made it a priority to settle claims quickly. They aimed to avoid long legal battles for the women involved. The company said, "While we cannot undo the past, we have been determined to do the right thing as an organization."
Harrods promised to ensure that such behavior never happens again. They have taken steps to create a safer environment for all workers and committed to putting their welfare first in every decision.
The allegations against Al Fayed have reopened discussions about workplace safety and the need for companies to protect their employees from abuse. The voices of these women are important in highlighting issues of power and abuse in the workplace.
As more details come out, the focus remains on supporting the victims and making sure there is accountability for what happened. Harrods is dedicated to making positive changes and learning from this difficult history.
