The Metropolitan Police apologised after a monthly update email accidentally exposed the addresses of 143 people who reported sexual abuse by Mohamed Al‑Fayed. The force said the disclosure was caused by "human error," contacted everyone affected and has referred the matter to the Information Commissioner’s Office. Victims’ representatives described the breach as "appalling"; investigations into allegations related to Al‑Fayed continue, with six people questioned so far and no arrests made.
Met Police Apologises After Email Leak Exposed 143 Al‑Fayed Abuse Complainants
Police apologise after Al-Fayed sex abuse complainants' identity breach
The Metropolitan Police has apologised after a routine monthly email accidentally revealed the addresses of 143 people who had reported sexual abuse by Mohamed Al‑Fayed. The force said the disclosure was caused by "human error" and that several additional recipients also received the message.
What Happened
Officers sent a monthly update to complainants in which the recipients' email addresses were visible to other recipients instead of being hidden. The force says the issue was identified quickly, immediate steps were taken and all affected people have been contacted.
Police Response
The Metropolitan Police apologised and confirmed the incident is being treated as a priority. The force has referred itself to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and said it is reviewing internal processes to reduce the risk of a similar breach.
Al Fayed (right) outside Harrods in 2005 - Copyright 2005 AP. All rights reserved.
"Appalling," said a group representing victims, reflecting anger and distress among those affected.
Background: Allegations Against Mohamed Al‑Fayed
Born in Egypt, Mohamed Al‑Fayed was a businessman best known as the former owner of Harrods, the Ritz Hotel in Paris and Fulham Football Club. He died in 2023, aged 94. After his death, hundreds of women came forward accusing him of rape, sexual assault and trafficking, with many allegations linked to his time owning Harrods. Some complaints were made while he was alive, but he never faced criminal charges.
Ongoing Investigations
The Met said it is continuing to investigate allegations against Al‑Fayed and any people who may have facilitated or enabled offending. Six people have been questioned so far and no arrests have been made. Earlier this month at least five women who say they were abused by Al‑Fayed were formally recognised by the UK Home Office as victims of modern slavery.
What Comes Next
The ICO referral means the information regulator will decide whether further action or sanctions are appropriate. The Met has pledged to review its communications procedures and undertake any remedial steps recommended by the regulator.
Key facts: 143 email addresses were exposed; the Met apologised and contacted those affected; the force has self‑referred to the ICO and is reviewing processes while investigations into allegations linked to Mohamed Al‑Fayed continue.
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