Harrods employees ‘manipulated’ into hiding their sexual abuse

Jon Brilliant worked as a member of Mohamed Al Fayed’s private office staff for around 18 months in the early 2000s. Following the recent explosion in interest and allegations of sexual abuse surrounding Al Fayed, Brilliant has now alleged that the former owner of Harrods would fire or force out of the company anyone he could not control or trust to remain silent.  

In a recent statement, Mr Brilliant commented that “[Al Fayed] was trying to get you to come back and say ‘oh, I spent money on drugs or I spent money frolicking, doing something that I shouldn’t have been doing’, and that he would then use that information against you if you should ever turn on him.” He also commented on the workplace culture amongst managers at Harrods, designed around surveillance and a lack of trust amongst staff members of all levels. 

Brilliant is believed to have been given around £39,000 in cash envelopes from Al Fayed, for the purpose of ensuring his silence, and seems to be one of a number of employees who Al Fayed tried to bribe. “He tried to own you and, ultimately, I got fired because I couldn’t be bought,” he said.

Harrods are yet to respond to Mr Brilliant's claims, but have previously stated they are now a ‘very different organisation’ compared to under Al Fayed’s ownership. 

Several hundred individuals are believed to have been sexually and physically abused by Mohamed Al Fayed, meanwhile the Metropolitan Police service is now believed to have received credible reports against the former Harrods owner from at least 110 women, with some aged as young as 13 at the time of their assault. 

In response to the vast outpouring of allegations, a Met Police spokesperson last week announced that a dedicated unit is investigation all new and historic reports in relation to Al Fayed. They confirmed “while Mr Al Fayed is no longer alive to face prosecution, we are determined to bring anyone who was suspected to have played a part in his offending to justice”. 

The accounts of those Al Fayed is believed to have abused are continuing to emerge, so widespread was his alleged abuse. Victims have come forwards having experienced harassment, sexual assault or rape at Harrods department store, Fulham Football Club, and many privates residences, all formerly owned by the billionaire. 

Here at Jordans, we recognise that abuse can have a lifelong impact on survivors, and would encourage anyone who was abused to seek support, and consider reporting their experience to the police. 

We have an experienced and dedicated team who specialise in representing victims of abuse.

We have the knowledge and experience to advise you on the available options for pursuing a Criminal Injuries Compensation Claim or civil damages claim.

If would like to speak to one of our Specialist Abuse Lawyers in confidence, please do not hesitate to contact us by telephoning 0800 955 5094 or 0330 300 1103.