What's happened
More than 20 women have accused former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed of sexual assault, including rape. The allegations surfaced following a BBC documentary, prompting Harrods' current owners to issue an apology, stating they are appalled by the claims and acknowledging past failures to protect employees.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, over 20 women have accused Al Fayed of sexual assault, with some detailing harrowing experiences in the BBC documentary. The current owners of Harrods expressed their dismay, stating, 'We are utterly appalled by the allegations of abuse perpetrated by Mohamed Al Fayed.' In contrast, The Guardian highlighted the historical context, noting that Fayed faced similar allegations during his lifetime but was never charged. This discrepancy in coverage underscores the evolving narrative surrounding Al Fayed's legacy and the implications for Harrods as an institution.
How we got here
The allegations against Al Fayed, who died in 2023, have resurfaced following the BBC documentary 'Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods.' This investigation revealed a pattern of abuse during his ownership of Harrods from 1985 to 2010, with multiple women coming forward to share their experiences.
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