London-Based Chinese Student Sentenced to 24 Years for Drugging and Raping 10 Women
A 28-year-old Chinese student residing in London, Zhenhao Zou, has been sentenced to 24 years in prison after being convicted of drugging and raping ten women across England and China. His crimes spanned from September 2019 to May 2023, during which he assaulted three women in London and seven in China.
Zou was found guilty of multiple charges, including 11 counts of R***—two of which involved the same victim—three counts of voyeurism, ten counts of possessing extreme pornographic images, one count of false imprisonment, and three counts of possessing controlled substances with the intent to commit S-ual offenses.
Disturbing Evidence and Victim Impact
During the trial, it was revealed that Zou maintained a “trophy box” containing personal items belonging to his victims and recorded nine of the assaults. The Metropolitan Police indicated that there could be over 50 additional victims, potentially making Zou one of the most notorious S-offenders in UK history.
At the sentencing on June 19, the judge described Zou as a “S-predator” who manipulated his victims into believing resistance was futile. She emphasized his “distorted thinking” and the high level of danger he posed, stating that he treated women as mere objects for his gratification.
Background and Modus Operandi
Zou, who came from a wealthy family, had a lavish lifestyle that included designer clothing and luxury items. He moved to Belfast in 2017 to study at Queen’s University before transferring to University College London (UCL) for his master’s and PhD studies. Using the alias “Pakho,” he targeted students of Chinese descent through social media platforms like WeChat and dating apps, inviting them for drinks before drugging them at his residences.
The police noted that Zou took extensive measures to incapacitate his victims, often leaving them with little to no memory of the assaults. Investigators discovered nearly 1,300 videos on his devices, which he claimed depicted consensual encounters, despite the overwhelming evidence to the contrary.
Victim Statements
Victims of Zou’s heinous acts have shared their harrowing experiences. One victim recounted being forced to consume excessive alcohol and being unable to leave his apartment. Another victim, who was unconscious during her assault, expressed that the trauma of the experience would haunt her forever.
The judge’s remarks during sentencing highlighted the profound impact of Zou’s actions on his victims, emphasizing the need for justice and the importance of consent in all interactions.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding sexual violence and the importance of supporting victims in their pursuit of justice.