British model accuses late Harrods owner Mohamed al-Fayed of sexual assault as a teenager.
British model Bianca Gascoigne has come forward with sexual assault allegations against the late former Harrods owner Mohamed al-Fayed.
In an interview with Sky News, the 37-year-old recalled how the Egyptian businessman tried to force himself on her when she was around 16 and employed at a luxury department store.
Gascoigne said Fayed, who was charming to her family, offered her an apartment stay but turned up unexpectedly and made advances.
“I was just gobsmacked…I managed to wiggle away,” she said, adding knowing her parents possibly saved her from more harm.
Her revelations come following complaints against Fayed, who died aged 94 last year, ranging from misconduct to rape over decades at Harrods.
A BBC documentary featured survivor accounts of abuse by the businessman, whose son Dodi was Princess Diana’s partner.
Current Harrods owners are settling over 250 compensation claims including those in the documentary. Former staff came forward after its screening, facilitating settlement processes.
The police are reviewing allegations against Fayed by two women from 2005 to 2013 to see if criminal charges are made. Gascoigne’s allegations add to the #MeToo movement seeking justice against powerful predators.
