Al-Fayed Inquiry: Searches at Ritz and Windsor Villa in Paris
French authorities are investigating Mohamed Al-Fayed for human trafficking and sexual abuse. Searches were carried out at his Parisian properties in October.
Investigations in France against Mohamed Al-Fayed
According to TF1 Info, the investigation against Mohamed Al-Fayed for human trafficking and sexual abuse is accelerating in France. The Paris public prosecutor's office confirmed to the AFP that searches and police custody procedures were carried out in mid-October at several prestigious properties: the Ritz palace on Place Vendôme, the Windsor villa in the Bois de Boulogne, and the Castel Sainte-Thérèse in Saint-Tropez. Several suspects were placed in police custody for analysis of seized digital media.
The Egyptian businessman, who died at the age of 94 in 2023, was never prosecuted during his lifetime in the United Kingdom despite numerous complaints. French authorities are now investigating accomplices who may have enabled him to operate an international network also involving his brother Salah. The Paris public prosecutor's office opened an investigation in summer 2025 for human trafficking in an organised criminal group, pimping and rape, following complaints from former "personal assistants". The specialist office for combating human trafficking (Ocrteh) is leading these investigations.
At least five complainants have been heard by investigators, the most recent in October. Several women, on both sides of the Channel, claim to have been assaulted at various properties owned by the billionaire. The British Home Office acknowledged that at least one complainant was a victim of trafficking at the Ritz, where Al-Fayed had offices. The Windsor villa is also cited by victims as a location of alleged assaults.
The complainants describe a consistent system to investigators: recruitment of young women sought for positions at Harrods, the London department store, or as assistants, accompanied by unjustified gynaecological examinations, resulting in sham jobs. These positions would have allowed them to be made available to the Al-Fayeds. Some victims hesitated for a long time before filing complaints due to their trauma or fear, whilst others could join the complainants.
When contacted by the AFP, the Ritz stated that it tolerates "no form of harassment, abuse or inappropriate behaviour" and is ready to "cooperate fully with the competent judicial authorities".
Source: TF1 Info