French authorities have initiated an investigation into potential sex-trafficking activities associated with the late businessman Mohamed Al Fayed, who passed away two years ago. The inquiry, directed by the Paris prosecutor’s office, is examining incidents of “aggravated human trafficking… with multiple victims” and also includes allegations of prostitution and a specific case of rape.
The Ritz Hotel in Paris, which Al Fayed owned, is expected to be a focal point of the investigation, as claims have emerged that hotel staff may have been aware of or facilitated the exploitation of women. In response, the Ritz Hotel expressed alarm over the allegations and stated its commitment to fully cooperate with law enforcement.
This investigation follows a series of legal challenges related to Al Fayed’s alleged violent crimes and the quest for justice for numerous victims. An important trigger for this investigation came from Pelham Spong, an American woman who reported her experiences to the French police. Spong alleges that Al Fayed transferred young women from the Ritz to different locations for exploitation. In 2008, she sought a job as a personal assistant for the Al Fayed family and claims she was assaulted after being subjected to invasive medical examinations.
Spong shared her perspective on the gravity of the situation, indicating that her experiences have led her to recognize the wider patterns of abuse. She hopes her reporting will encourage others to come forward. Spong’s lawyer highlighted the strength of her case due to the evidence she has collected.
In addition to the French investigation, Al Fayed is also under scrutiny in the UK, where over 140 individuals have reported him to law enforcement for various sexual offenses. Notably, a documentary aired in September 2024 shed light on these allegations, prompting further complaints from former employees.
The Metropolitan Police have acknowledged past distress caused to alleged victims after determining that Al Fayed would not face charges prior to his death. They are currently reviewing their handling of past allegations against him, including possible complicity from others.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpv17g0e72ko?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss