UK

Met Police refers itself to watchdog after complaints over handling of al Fayed allegations

The Metropolitan Police has referred two cases to the police watchdog following complaints about investigations into allegations made against Mohamed al Fayed.

The force has voluntarily referred the cases to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) after receiving complaints from two women regarding prior police investigations into allegations against the former Harrods and Fulham FC owner – who died last August.

“These complaints, involving investigations from 2008 and 2013, address concerns about the quality of police response and, in the case of the 2013 investigation, how details came to be disclosed publicly,” the force said in a statement.

Commander Stephen Clayman, from the Met’s Specialist Crime team, said: “We are actively reviewing 21 allegations reported to the Metropolitan Police prior to Mohamed Al Fayed’s passing, as well as the related police investigations, to determine if any additional investigative steps are available or there are things we could have done better.

“This process remains active, and we are committed to assessing all new allegations, pursuing justice where possible and transparently addressing any failings.

“In recent weeks, two victims-survivors have come forward with concerns about how their allegations were handled when first reported, and it is only appropriate that the IOPC assess these complaints.

“Although we cannot change the past, we are resolute in our goal to offer every individual who contacts us the highest standard of service and support.”

More from UK

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.

Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

You can receive breaking news alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News app. You can also follow @SkyNews on X or subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with the latest news.

Articles You May Like

‘This has to end’: Why parents are struggling to pay for baby formula
Bonfire Night disorder across Edinburgh – youths hurl fireworks at police
Tesla Model Y Havnby air mattress adds stars to Camp Mode
Over $2.8 billion bet on bitcoin topping $90,000 as it hits all-time high
‘No plans’ for Starmer to meet with Taliban at COP29