A Metropolitan Police review presented to lawmakers identified approximately 70 survivors’ accounts as bearing characteristics consistent with human trafficking, according to briefings provided to an all-party parliamentary group focused on Fayed and Harrods survivors in July. The Home Office has formally confirmed that at least five individuals were victims of trafficking, though senior police officers investigating the matter through Operation Cornpoppy indicated the actual number of confirmed cases would likely increase substantially.
Police stated that some women were moved from Harrods to Fayed’s private offices and residence at Park Lane in London, while others were transported internationally and subjected to abuse overseas. One survivor, identified as Amy, described being transferred from a shop floor position to work as a personal assistant at the Park Lane location, where she alleged sexual assault occurred. She also reported being taken by private car and helicopter to an estate in Surrey, where she claimed to have been sexually assaulted at a swimming pool.
A significant challenge has emerged regarding international survivors. Multiple individuals currently residing outside the United Kingdom have encountered difficulties securing recognition as trafficking victims through the National Referral Mechanism, the system designed to identify and support such individuals. Amy and approximately 277 other alleged survivors are represented by KP Law, with nearly a quarter now living abroad. After receiving conflicting guidance from the Home Office, Amy was eventually informed that international residents would be rejected for trafficking victim recognition.
The independent anti-slavery commissioner acknowledged that Home Office statutory guidance restricts referrals to individuals physically present in the UK, citing logistical concerns about providing safe housing and counseling services to overseas residents. However, she urged reconsideration of this requirement, noting that many survivors seek formal recognition regardless of location and that current policies are causing significant distress. The Metropolitan Police announced it had paused referrals for victims living abroad following repeated rejections and indicated willingness to resume submissions if the Home Office changes its position.
Survivors’ advocacy groups report that more than 500 women have made allegations of abuse at multiple locations including Harrods, Park Lane, Fulham Football Club, and the Ritz Hotel in Paris. The police investigation directly involves 165 victims who have contacted the Metropolitan Police.
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