Police Investigate Stalking Allegations Against Boohoo Executives

Law enforcement agencies in Manchester and Kent are looking into allegations of stalking and surveillance targeting current and former executives of the fashion company Boohoo. Greater Manchester Police confirmed it is examining allegations “involving serious distress,” noting that no arrests have occurred. According to The Times newspaper, the alleged stalking incidents involved Boohoo’s co-founder and executive chair Mahmud Kamani, chief executive Dan Finley, and former chief John Lyttle. A Boohoo spokesperson stated: “It would be inappropriate to comment whilst a police investigation is ongoing.” The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) indicated that Boohoo had notified them about a possible surveillance incident occurring near the retailer’s main office in Manchester. A spokesperson for the information watchdog confirmed: “We can confirm that Boohoo Group has made us aware of concerns regarding the discovery of surveillance equipment outside its head office.” Greater Manchester Police commented: “An investigation is ongoing around stalking involving serious alarm/distress with no arrests made at this stage.” Kent Police reported it “is investigating reported stalking offences including at locations within the Sevenoaks area”. The force added: “Enquiries are ongoing and there have been no arrests.” The BBC has sought comment from Mr Lyttle, who resigned from his role as Boohoo’s chief executive in October after serving for five years. His departure occurred after Boohoo revealed it was contemplating a significant restructuring and potential division of the company, stating the business was “fundamentally undervalued.” In a separate development, Frasers Group, the largest shareholder in Boohoo, has voiced criticism regarding the company’s management, its latest financial outcomes, and its business assessment. Furthermore, Frasers expressed its desire to appoint Mike Ashley to Boohoo’s board in an open letter addressed to other shareholders. Boohoo responded by stating: “Frasers appears intent on disrupting boohoo’s business review and acting only in its own commercial self-interest.” Mr Ashley founded Sports Direct and established a retail conglomerate that encompasses House of Fraser, Flannels, and Evans Cycles, all operating under the Frasers Group parent company. An extraordinary general meeting is scheduled for Friday, 20 December, in Manchester, where shareholders will cast votes on Frasers Group’s proposals concerning Boohoo.