Friday, June 20, 2025 - A Chinese PhD
student described as one of the UK’s worst s3x offenders has been sentenced to
life in prison for drugging and raping at least 10 women across the United
Kingdom and China.
Zhenhao Zou, 28, was handed a life sentence on Thursday at
Inner London Crown Court, with a minimum term of 24 years before he becomes
eligible for parole. Judge Rosina Cottage stated Zou would serve 22 years and
227 days before parole consideration, accounting for time already spent in
custody, according to PA Media.
Zou was found guilty in March of 11 counts of rape, one count
of false imprisonment, three counts of voyeurism, and additional charges,
including possession of extreme pornographic content and a controlled substance
with intent to commit a sexual offense.
Prosecutors said many of his victims were drugged into
unconsciousness and left defenceless before being assaulted.
According to authorities, Zou—who also used the alias “Pakho”
online—targeted women, mostly students of Chinese heritage, via WeChat and
various dating apps. He lured them to apartments in London and China, where he
drugged, raped, and in some cases, stole personal belongings such as jewelry
and clothing.
Police said Zou recorded some of the attacks using mobile
phones and hidden cameras. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) described him as
a manipulative predator who preyed on women "in the most cowardly
way."
Zou was a PhD candidate at University College London (UCL)
when he was arrested in January 2024 after one of his victims came forward.
Investigators later uncovered further evidence linking him to attacks in both
countries.
Authorities fear the true number of victims may be far
higher. In March, UK police said they believed Zou could have assaulted more
than 50 women, as more victims continued to come forward.
In a statement, prosecutors praised the survivors, calling them “incredibly strong and brave,” adding, “There is no doubt their courage in coming forward led to this conviction.”
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