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Chinese Student Found Guilty of Drugging and Raping Women in UK and China
Verdict and Charges
A London court found 28-year-old Zhenhao Zou guilty on Wednesday of drugging and raping 10 women in both Britain and China. Authorities suspect he may have attacked as many as 50 others. Zou, who lived in south London, was convicted of 28 offenses, including 11 counts of rape, at the Inner London Crown Court.
Method of Offense
Zou used online platforms and dating apps to meet women, inviting them to his home under the pretext of having drinks or studying. Once there, he drugged them, filmed himself sexually assaulting them while they were unconscious, and kept some of their jewelry and clothing as trophies.
Police Investigation and Evidence
After a victim came forward, police searched Zou’s home and discovered drugs, hidden cameras, and hundreds of videos on his laptops and phones. Millions of messages further revealed that his offenses were not limited to Britain but also extended to China. Authorities have only identified eight of the 10 known victims so far.
Authorities’ Statements
Saira Pike from Britain’s Crown Prosecution Service described Zou as a “serial rapist and a danger to women.” The Metropolitan Police emphasized their commitment to seeking justice for all victims, including those who remain unidentified.
Background and Timeline
Originally from Dongguan in Guangdong Province, Zou moved to the UK in 2017 and began studying for a PhD at University College London in 2019. His crimes came to light after police began their investigation following the report from a victim.
Appeal for More Victims to Come Forward
British police, working with China’s Ministry of Public Security, believe there may be over 50 unidentified victims. Some women may be unaware they were attacked. Authorities are particularly interested in hearing from anyone in the Chinese student community in Britain who may have encountered Zou.
Sentencing Date
Zou is scheduled to be sentenced on June 19.
“Chinese Student Found Guilty of Drugging and Raping Women in UK and China” “Chinese Student Found Guilty of Drugging and Raping Women in UK and China”