A criminal investigation has been launched into billionaire property tycoon Asif Aziz following a wave of complaints from residents at Fountain House, a luxury apartment complex in London’s prestigious Mayfair district, according to media reports.

The inquiry is being led by former Scotland Yard commander Tarique Ghaffur CBE, who confirmed that his team is conducting a private criminal investigation into Aziz and his property management firm, Parkgate Aspen.

“We are conducting a criminal investigation into Fountain House over several matters concerning Asif Aziz and his management company and cohorts,” Ghaffur said.

He added that the probe stems from formal complaints filed by leaseholders and additional materials reviewed by his team.

He confirmed that findings from the investigation would be submitted to the appropriate authorities.

Dispute over service charges and building management

Leaseholders, comprising high-net-worth individuals, alleged they have been charged excessive fees for poor-quality service.

Some residents have initiated civil proceedings, citing neglect, mismanagement, and a failure to meet luxury standards.

Additional scrutiny has emerged over Aziz’s “Dstrkt” housing brand, where tenants report severe maintenance problems and even rodent infestations, despite premium rental prices.

Backlash

In the past, Aziz has faced backlash for acquiring local pubs through offshore vehicles and converting them into high-end housing.

In 2020, The Times labelled him “the meanest landlord in Britain” due to his handling of tenants during the pandemic.

In 2022, Novara Media published an exposé accusing him of converting community nurseries and bars into luxury flats. His legal team responded with threats of defamation suits.

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