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Harrods asked the High Court to appoint a special enforcer to the estate of its late former owner, Mohamed Al Fayed, to open another route for compensation for suspected victims of sexual abuse.
The gorgeous London department store confirmed on Friday that it had submitted a so-called passover application to appoint expert executors to implement the management of the property. That means that, according to anyone familiar with the situation, his widow and two daughters can be replaced as enforcers.
“This application could open a route for survivors who have no connection to Harrods. Therefore, they can make direct claims against Faye properties as they are not eligible to apply to Harrod Relief Scheme,” Harrods said in a statement Friday. “It also opens a route to potentially seeking the contribution of compensation paid by Harrods for (al)fade’s actions.”
Over 100 victims have participated in the department store compensation scheme over the past three months, “many people have been confirmed to be eligible,” Harrods added.
The Harrods court application comes after last year aired allegations of sexual assault, including rape, against Al Fayed, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 94.
Law firm Harbottle & Lewis represents the late businessman widow Heini Waten and his daughter Camilla, while Farrah and Kang represents his daughter Jasmine. Together, the three are the real estate executors, according to those familiar with arrangements.
Harrods began paying for the victims at the end of April, and previously said victims could apply for compensation until March 31st next year, but the deadline could be extended.
The victim can take Harod to court if they determine that the settlement scheme is not suitable for them.
Harbottle & Lewis and Farrer & Co did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
