Met Police accused of failing modern slavery victims of Mohamed al-Fayed

Survivors of a modern slavery scheme run by Mohamed al-Fayed said the Metropolitan Police failed to refer them to the National Referral Mechanism ^[1].

This failure allegedly left victims without the statutory support and protections guaranteed under modern slavery legislation. The lack of referral means those affected may have been denied essential housing, legal aid, and psychological services designed for trafficking survivors.

At least five confirmed victims of the scheme have come forward regarding the police response ^[3]. The National Referral Mechanism is the framework used in the U.S. and United Kingdom to identify and support victims of trafficking and modern slavery. Under current laws, police have a duty to ensure that potential victims are entered into this system to receive necessary aid.

Survivors said the Metropolitan Police did not offer them a referral to the National Referral Mechanism when they came forward ^[1]. This omission is described as a breach of legal duty by the survivors and their representatives.

The allegations center on the period during which the victims reported their experiences of trafficking and forced labor. By failing to initiate the referral process, the Metropolitan Police effectively blocked the victims' access to the government's formal support structure.

The Metropolitan Police have not yet provided a detailed response to these specific allegations of negligence. The case highlights ongoing tensions regarding how London's police force handles high-profile trafficking cases involving wealthy individuals.