French police make arrests in Al Fayed abuse probe

Suspects taken into custody in Paris

French police executed search warrants at three locations including the Hotel Ritz in the first arrondissement of Paris. Officers also searched the Villa Windsor in the sixteenth arrondissement and a property in Saint-Tropez known as Castel Sainte-Therese. Several individuals were placed in police custody during these operations before being released after interviews concluded. The Paris Public Prosecutor's Office confirmed that digital material seized from computers and phones is currently under analysis.

Joint operation with British authorities

The Metropolitan Police stated its officers were present at the sites during the mid-October searches in France. This marks the first time arrests have occurred in relation to allegations of abuse and trafficking involving the former Harrods owner. French investigators interviewed multiple victims while gathering evidence regarding an alleged international network supplying women to the late billionaire. The probe was launched in 2025 to track accomplices of Mohamed Al Fayed and his brother Salah Al Fayed.

Victims describe trafficking system details

Lawyers representing complainants told AFP that new victims continue to come forward each month despite their trauma. They allege a highly organised group recruited young women hoping for careers at Harrods or as assistants. These individuals reportedly faced invasive examinations and made-up jobs that placed them at the disposal of the Al Fayed brothers. Prosecutors say the investigation is ongoing while authorities analyse the seized digital evidence from the properties.