The investigation into espionage allegations against Boohoo intensifies as the Metropolitan Police joins the effort.
- Control Risks, a security consultancy, identifies extensive hostile surveillance targeting Boohoo executives.
- Unregistered surveillance equipment found outside Boohoo’s Manchester headquarters adds to the intrigue.
- Former CEO John Lyttle’s recent resignation may correlate with these security concerns.
- Boohoo grapples with shareholder tensions as Frasers Group advocates for leadership changes.
The espionage allegations against Boohoo have reached a new level of intensity, with the Metropolitan Police now contributing to the investigation. Control Risks, a security consultancy engaged by Boohoo, has exposed what it describes as an extensive hostile surveillance operation aimed at senior figures within the company, such as former CEO John Lyttle and co-founder Mahmud Kamani. These findings align with investigations conducted by police in Manchester and Kent.
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed their involvement, looking into reports of an individual being trailed by unidentified persons across various locales, notably including London, between July and August of this year. Though the police have remained tight-lipped about any particular individuals or organisations under scrutiny, the alleged incidents are believed to have been carried out by multiple operatives who tracked Boohoo executives on public transport, near their residences, and at the company’s Manchester offices.
Control Risks have uncovered surveillance equipment lacking registration near Boohoo’s offices in November, subsequently turning these findings over to authorities. The situation has reportedly affected John Lyttle, who left his role as CEO in October, with reports citing instances of trespassers on his property and physical assault on Mahmud Kamani.
These allegations arise amidst a period of turmoil for Boohoo, compounded by tensions with significant shareholder Frasers Group, which holds a 28% stake in the company. Frasers have expressed a desire to see Mike Ashley installed as CEO and have called for restructuring expert Mike Lennon to be appointed to the board, citing what they perceive as a leadership vacuum at Boohoo. Despite rising tensions, Frasers CEO Michael Murray has stated, “My thoughts are [that] we can’t comment at this stage.”
In light of these events, questions continue to swirl around Boohoo’s leadership and the potential impacts on the company’s future, particularly with ongoing police investigations.
As investigations deepen, Boohoo faces challenges both from alleged surveillance activities and internal leadership disputes.
