Lahore, April 14: A private criminal investigation is said to be initiated into billionaire property tycoon Asif Aziz, following a series of complaints from residents of Fountain House, a luxury apartment complex situated on Park Lane in London’s prestigious Mayfair district.
The inquiry is being led by Tarique Ghaffur CBE, a former senior officer of Scotland Yard.
What’s the conflict?
Fountain House, comprising approximately 80 high-end apartments near the Dorchester Hotel, is managed by Aziz’s property management firm, Parkgate Aspen. Residents, many of whom are high-net-worth individuals, have raised concerns over excessive service charges and alleged substandard management practices. Some have initiated civil proceedings against Parkgate Aspen, citing neglect and a failure to meet the expected standards of luxury living.
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Ghaffur confirmed the investigation, stating, “We are conducting a criminal investigation into Fountain House over several matters concerning Asif Aziz and his management company and cohorts. The investigation has arisen due to several complaints from leaseholders and information I have subsequently received and reviewed. In our opinion, due to the serious concerns regarding matters that have occurred, it merits a criminal investigation. We have started to collect evidence to prove criminal offences and thereafter we shall report our findings to the relevant authorities.”
Asif Aziz, often referred to as “Mr. Mayfair” and “Mr. West End,” is known for his extensive property holdings across London, including ownership of the Trocadero and Criterion buildings. Through his company, Criterion Capital, Aziz has amassed a significant real estate portfolio. He also operates the Aziz Foundation, a charitable organization.
Past Investigations
Aziz’s business practices have previously attracted scrutiny. In 2020, The Times questioned whether he was “the meanest landlord in Britain” due to his treatment of tenants during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, Novara Media reported on his acquisition of community spaces, such as bars and nurseries, which were then redeveloped into luxury apartments. Aziz’s legal team responded to the latter report with threats of defamation action.
In early 2025, Aziz’s company faced criticism when the Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square launched a campaign against Zedwell LSQ Ltd., a company owned by Aziz, over proposed rent increases and lease terms. The “Save The Prince Charles Cinema” petition garnered over 115,000 signatures within two days.
Additionally, reports have surfaced regarding maintenance issues and vermin infestations in properties managed under Aziz’s “Dstrkt” housing brand, despite increasing rents. Aziz also reportedly paid £150,000 to settle allegations related to operating an unlicensed Forrest Gump-themed shrimp restaurant in Piccadilly Circus.
The ongoing investigation into Fountain House represents a significant development in the scrutiny of Aziz’s property management practices. Findings from this inquiry are expected to be submitted to the appropriate authorities for further action.
