Fayed Abuse Accusers: Nearly Half Are Trafficking Victims 2026

Nearly half of the women who reported sexual abuse by Mohamed Al Fayed to the Metropolitan Police are potential victims of human trafficking, MPs have been told. This revelation came during a briefing for the all-party parliamentary group (APPG) for the survivors of Fayed and Harrods in July, where senior Met officers disclosed that a review earlier this year found 70 survivors' accounts bore the hallmarks of trafficking.

Scale of Trafficking Linked to Fayed

The Home Office confirmed last month that at least five survivors were victims of international and domestic trafficking. However, the Met's figures suggest the number of confirmed cases could climb much higher, according to Liberal Democrat MP Wendy Chamberlain, co-chair of the APPG. "I can't believe that wouldn't increase," she said, comparing the scale of Fayed's abuse to that of Jimmy Savile. Labour MP Dave Robertson, the APPG's other co-chair, added: "The number of women who were trafficked by Mohammed Fayed and his trafficking ring is certainly much higher."

Senior police officers running Operation Cornpoppy, the Met's investigation, told the APPG that some women were trafficked from Harrods to Fayed's private offices and residence in Park Lane, while others were taken out of the UK and abused overseas.

Challenges in Recognizing Victims

Despite the evidence, several survivors told the Guardian that the Home Office had not recognised them as victims of trafficking because they now live abroad. Amy, who lives in Italy, said she was trafficked from the UK to France and then to Italy, but her case has not been officially acknowledged. This gap in recognition raises concerns about the support and justice available to survivors outside the UK.

Key Takeaways

• Nearly half of Fayed's abuse accusers are potential trafficking victims.
• Operation Cornpoppy is investigating trafficking from Harrods to Fayed's properties and overseas.
• Survivors abroad face challenges in being recognized as trafficking victims.
• MPs compare the scale of abuse to that of Jimmy Savile.

Comparing Fayed and Savile

The comparison to Jimmy Savile underscores the severity of the allegations. Both cases involve prominent figures who used their power to abuse victims over decades. The trafficking element adds another layer of complexity, as it involves cross-border crimes and vulnerable individuals.

What's Next for Survivors?

The APPG is calling for greater recognition and support for all survivors, regardless of where they live. The Met's investigation continues, and further cases of trafficking are expected to be confirmed. Survivors and advocates are urging the Home Office to streamline the process for recognizing trafficking victims abroad.

FAQ