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London Mayor Sadiq Khan has sent a letter to billionaire Asif Aziz regarding claims that his property company is conducting “mass evictions” of London residents. The allegations suggest that over 600 flats across various parts of London are being targeted with soon-to-be-banned Section 21 notices to avoid a forthcoming law that favors tenants. Criterion Capital, the real estate firm that owns properties including the Trocadero building in Leicester Square, denied the widespread eviction claims, stating it was inaccurate to say hundreds of residents had been served notices but declined to specify the exact number.
Khan’s office expressed dismay over the reports and requested Criterion Capital to clarify their actions urgently. The mayor emphasized that forcing Londoners out of their homes without proper cause is unacceptable, adding, “It keeps residents in a terrible position, worried about their future and their families.”
Aziz, a Malawi-born billionaire and founder of the Aziz Foundation—his family’s charity—has partnered with the London Mayor on annual events, including the official Ramadan Lights switch-on, most recently in February 14.
In a direct letter to Aziz, Khan wrote: “No explanation has been provided, and you have failed to offer assurances regarding residents’ safety and security. This situation is becoming increasingly alarming and uncertain for tenants, especially with recent allegations of ongoing evictions. Everyone has a fundamental right to a safe, stable home, and I strongly oppose the use of Section 21 no-fault eviction notices, particularly on a large scale.”
Section 21 notices allow landlords to evict tenants with only two months’ notice and no reason required. These notices are set to be eliminated in May under the Labour government’s Renters’ Rights Act. Housing advocates worry that landlords may expedite evictions before the law takes effect.
Shelter, a housing charity, describes these notices as a leading cause of homelessness, citing their abruptness and the limited notice given to tenants to find new accommodations.
A representative for Criterion Capital stated that reports of mass evictions have been “misrepresented and politicized routine and lawful tenancy issues.”
Founded in 2015, the Aziz Foundation provides grants and internships to support British Muslims. Aziz previously served on the board of Mosaic, a leadership program established by King Charles in 2007.
Recently, former senior Scotland Yard officer Tariq Ghaffur announced he is launching a criminal investigation into Aziz over complaints from residents of Fountain House, a luxury apartment building on Park Lane owned by one of Aziz’s companies, located near neighborhoods of prominent figures like Shahrukh Khan and the Sharif family.
Aziz, who refers to himself as “Mr. Mayfair” and “Mr. West End,” manages a portfolio of high-end properties through his organization, the Aziz Foundation. His company, Parkgate Aspen, manages Fountain House. Ghaffur explained, “We are investigating Fountain House concerning complaints related to Aziz and his management team. The investigation stems from numerous leaseholder concerns and information we’ve collected. Due to serious issues uncovered, a criminal probe is warranted.”
The dispute involves residents, all of whom are wealthy and successful, over service charges and other service-related concerns. Many residents have voiced frustration over inadequate services and maintenance.
In 2017, Aziz contested in the High Court that his wife of 14 years was not entitled to a share of his fortune—estimated at £1.1 billion—on the grounds they were not legally married. The couple, who have four children, reached a settlement.
In 2025, reports emerged detailing extensive maintenance failures and pest infestations in properties under Aziz’s “Dstrkt” housing brand, despite rent increases. Aziz also reportedly paid £150,000 to settle allegations of illegally operating an unlicensed Forrest Gump-themed shrimp restaurant at Piccadilly Circus.
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