Former Employee Alleges Rape by Late Billionaire Mohamed Al Fayed
A woman who alleges she was raped by her former employer, Mohamed Al Fayed, has revealed that she remains "petrified" of the late Egyptian billionaire, despite his death. Al Fayed, who owned Harrods for over 25 years, passed away last year at the age of 94.
As part of a BBC investigation, more than 20 former female employees have come forward with allegations of assault and physical violence at Al Fayed’s properties in London and Paris. Five women have accused the tycoon of rape, according to the broadcaster.
Harrods’ current owners have responded to the allegations with a statement expressing their shock and dismay, saying they are "utterly appalled" by the abuse claims. "As a business, we failed our employees who were his victims, and for this, we sincerely apologise," the company added.
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Gemma, one of Al Fayed’s personal assistants from 2007 to 2009, told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that she had been too frightened to seek justice while he was alive. "Even now, these last few weeks, reliving all those moments has brought back that fear," she said. "I’m now walking around feeling terrified of somebody that’s dead, because he just had that power over you."
Gemma also revealed she was "required" to undergo gynaecological tests before securing her role, which she now believes were meant to check for sexually transmitted infections. She claims the harassment began immediately after she started working for Al Fayed, with the tycoon making sexual remarks and groping her.
During work trips, Gemma described locking herself in rooms and bathrooms to avoid his advances. She alleged that Al Fayed raped her during a trip to Paris.
The allegations come amid renewed scrutiny of the late billionaire’s legacy, with former employees speaking out about their experiences for the first time.