Chinese Student Sentenced to Life for Rape Spree Across UK and China
Chinese Student Sentenced: Chinese student Zhenhao Zou, 28, was sentenced by a London court to life in prison for drugging and rape of several women in China and Britain. Before being qualified for parole, he has to serve minimum 24 years. The sentence captures the weight and scope of his crimes.
Targeting Victims Through Online Platforms
Living in South London, Zou carefully picked victims using dating apps and internet sites. He invited women into his house under false promises of drinks or study aid. He drugged them and executed sexual assaults while they were unconscious once they arrived. Unbelievably, he kept objects like jewellery and clothes as trophies and recorded many attacks.
Life Sentence for a “Highly Manipulative Predator”
Following a protracted trial at Inner London Crown Court, the jury judged Zou guilty in March of 28 offenses—including 11 counts of rape. Judge Rosina Cottage characterised him as “highly manipulative and intelligent,” devoid of regard for the feelings or well-being of his victims, at sentence.
The judge also underlined how methodically and deliberately he behaved, so causing long-lasting psychological damage. Requiring minimum of 24 years, the life sentence acknowledges the great threat he poses to society.
Zou was one of the most frequent sexual predators Detective Inspector Richard MacKenzie of London’s Metropolitan Police reported coming across. “The mere scope of his offending, across two countries, makes him one of the most dangerous people we have ever seen,” MacKenzie said.
Investigators believe more victims could be involved. Although authorities estimate over fifty more women may have been assaulted, they have not yet come forward. Police advise everyone impacted to get in touch as the inquiry is still under way.
Chinese Student Sentenced From PhD Student to Serial Offender
Originally from Dongguan in Guangdong Province, China, Zou moved to the UK in 2017. By 2019, he had enrolled in a PhD program at University College London, while secretly living a double life as a sexual predator.
The investigation began after one brave victim reported him. Police searches of Zou’s home uncovered drugs, hidden cameras, and massive digital evidence. His devices contained hundreds of videos and millions of messages, proving his crimes spanned both the UK and China.
Law enforcement continues to urge other victims to come forward. Support services remain available to help those affected, as authorities work to bring full justice to all victims.
