Calls for Investigation into Allegations Against Mohammed Al Fayed

French prosecutors are facing mounting pressure to investigate serious allegations of sexual assault and rape involving Mohammed Al Fayed at the Ritz Hotel in Paris. This renewed scrutiny follows a recent BBC documentary that exposed these claims, prompting more than five women to come forward with their own stories of predatory behavior by the late billionaire, known for owning Harrods department store in London.

One of the women, Kristina Svensson, who served as an executive assistant at the Ritz from 1998 to 2000, has been vocal about her experience and plans to formally request an investigation from the Paris prosecutor’s office. In her words, “We’re in enough of a rage that nothing is going to stop us.”

The documentary, titled Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods, outlined numerous allegations of rape against Al Fayed, revealing not only the disturbing behavior itself but also the apparent complicity of the hotel management in covering up these incidents. Svensson described the environment fostered by Al Fayed as akin to a “cult” or “mafia,” claiming that a culture of silence—similar to the “omertà” found in organized crime—was prevalent in all his establishments, including the Ritz.

Svensson believes that at least 50 people who worked with her during her time at the Ritz were aware of Al Fayed’s misconduct. “People need to pick their side and decide if they were culpable in any way,” she stated, emphasizing that her legal team is prepared to explore all avenues to uncover the truth.

Anne-Claire Le Jeune, a lawyer with experience in high-profile sexual abuse cases, echoed the need for a thorough investigation. She noted that the prosecutor has a “moral duty” to pursue this matter, especially given the number of women now stepping forward with similar allegations. In recent days, another woman reached out to Le Jeune, alleging abuse by Al Fayed, further strengthening the call for legal action.

While French prosecutors are not obligated to open an investigation, both Svensson and Le Jeune remain hopeful that increased media attention will encourage other victims to come forward. There is currently no information about whether any complaints regarding Al Fayed were filed with French authorities during his lifetime.

Svensson suggested that former managers at the Ritz might be willing to provide information to law enforcement regarding the alleged abuse. “A lot of people could have known what happened at the Ritz,” she said, indicating that some may have remained silent out of fear, while others may have actively aided Al Fayed. “It’s crucial to identify those individuals,” she asserted.

The Ritz Hotel, still under the ownership of the Al Fayed family, has issued only a brief statement since the documentary aired. It did not specifically address the allegations but condemned any behavior that contradicts the hotel’s values.

Located near the French Justice Ministry in Place Vendôme, the Ritz is an iconic Paris landmark, famously known as the last place where Princess Diana dined before her tragic death in a car accident on August 31, 1997, alongside Dodi Al Fayed, Mohammed’s son.

Svensson has found a sense of empowerment in speaking out. “It has brought me much joy,” she said, highlighting that many victims, now in their 50s, have reached a point in their lives where they feel courageous enough to confront their past. “We don’t want our daughters and grandchildren to suffer similar abuse,” she emphasized, calling for justice not only for themselves but for future generations.

As the investigation takes shape, the focus will remain on uncovering the truth behind the allegations against Al Fayed and examining the systemic issues that may have allowed such behavior to persist unchecked. The growing number of women stepping forward signifies a shift in the narrative surrounding abuse and a determination to hold accountable those who enable it.