Update on investigation into individuals who may have facilitated or enabled offending by Mohamed Al Fayed

Specialist detectives leading one of the Mets largest and most complex investigations continue to investigate individuals who may have facilitated or enabled offending by Mohamed Al Fayed. The investigation remains active and three suspects have now been interviewed under caution as part of the live investigation.

Between Wednesday, 25 February and Thursday, 5 March, three women aged in their 40s, 50s, and 60s were interviewed under caution. They were questioned on suspicion of the following offences:

• Aiding and abetting rape and sexual assault

• Assisting the commission of sexual offences

• Human trafficking for sexual exploitation

No arrests have been made at this time and the investigation remains on going.

To date, 154 victims have come forward and reported allegations of sexual assault, rape, sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Over the past 18 months, officers have taken detailed accounts from victims and witnesses to build a comprehensive picture of the alleged offending.

Information shared during these conversations, together with continued partnership work across the United Kingdom and overseas, has broadened the scope of the inquiry to cover all reported offences including human trafficking.

Commander Angela Craggs of the Metropolitan Police said:

"Victims remain at the centre of this investigation. Today’s update marks an important step in a complex and far reaching investigation.

"While Al Fayed is no longer alive to face prosecution, we have always been determined to bring anyone who is suspected to have played a part in his offending to justice.

"We encourage anyone with information, whether you were directly affected by Mohamed Al Fayed actions or have concerns about others who may have been involved or committed offences, to contact us. Information can also be shared anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

"We will share further updates when we are able to do so and only when this will not risk jeopardising criminal or other proceedings."