The investigation into the alleged stalking of current and former Boohoo executives has expanded, as the Metropolitan Police joined the inquiry involving multiple forces across England.
Security consultancy Control Risks, hired by the fashion giant, uncovered evidence of what it described as a “campaign of extensive hostile surveillance” targeting senior executives, including former CEO John Lyttle and co-founder Mahmud Kamani.
According to the Times, the findings follow similar probes by police in Manchester and Kent.
The Met Police confirmed it is investigating reports that a man was followed by unidentified individuals across various locations, including London, between 8 July and 15 August this year.
Police declined to comment on whether or not any individuals or organisations are under investigation.
The alleged incidents are said to involve multiple operatives trailing Boohoo executives on public transport, near their homes, and outside the retailer’s Manchester headquarters. Control Risks reportedly discovered unregistered surveillance equipment outside the office in November, which was handed over to the authorities.
-
-
Related Story
-
-
John Lyttle’s resignation in October after five years as CEO is believed to have been partly influenced by the situation, with reports of two recent trespassers on his property. Kamani has also reportedly been physically assaulted.
A Boohoo spokesman told the outlet: “It would be inappropriate to comment whilst a police investigation is ongoing.”
The allegations come at a turbulent time for Boohoo, as tensions rise with major shareholder Frasers Group, which owns 28% of the business. Frasers has called for Mike Ashley to be installed as CEO and for restructuring expert Mike Lennon to join the board, citing a “leadership crisis” at the retailer.
Frasers CEO Michael Murray said this week: “My thoughts are [that] we can’t comment at this stage.”
Control Risks declined to comment on its involvement in the investigation.
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
