Scotland Yard refers itself to watchdog over Fayed cases

Scotland Yard has referred itself to a police watchdog after two women complained about how their cases against Mohamed alFayed were handled.

- BARNEY DAVIS

According to the Metropolitan Police, the two women raised concerns about the quality of the police response and, in the case of the 2013 investigation, how details came to be disclosed publicly.

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.