Al Fayed Accused of Bribery and Manipulation

Jon Brilliant, a former director at Harrods, has accused the late billionaire Mohamed Al Fayed of using cash bribes and manipulation to control senior management and conceal alleged sexual abuse incidents. Brilliant claims he received around $50,000 in cash from Al Fayed, who aimed to compromise him and maintain a culture of fear among staff, which included regular sackings of those who could not be controlled. His allegations come as the Metropolitan Police investigates claims from over 90 alleged victims of abuse by Al Fayed, who died in 2023 without facing charges. The management environment at Harrods was described as one of surveillance and distrust, making it difficult for directors to challenge Al Fayed's authority or question his actions. Harrods has expressed its horror at the allegations and has initiated a claims process for victims, emphasizing that it has transformed since Al Fayed's ownership. Four other former directors have reportedly corroborated elements of Brilliant's account, painting a troubling picture of the workplace culture under Al Fayed's control.