Chinese PhD Student Convicted of Drugging and Raping Multiple Women

Zhenhao Zou, a Chinese PhD student, was convicted in a London court for drugging and raping ten women between 2019 and 2023. Police believe there may be over 50 additional victims. Zou filmed some attacks and has been characterized as a significant sexual offender. His sentencing is set for June 19.

A Chinese PhD student, Zhenhao Zou, was convicted on March 5, 2025, in a London court for drugging and raping ten women across England and China from 2019 to 2023. Following a trial at the Inner London Crown Court, he was found guilty of 11 counts of rape, with two offenses connected to a single victim. Law enforcement officials have warned that Zou may have as many as 50 additional victims, significantly heightening concerns about his actions.

Zou utilized hidden and handheld cameras to record nine of the assaults, referring to the recordings as “souvenirs,” and amassed a collection of victims’ personal items. As a PhD student in mechanical engineering at University College London, he claimed that the sexual encounters were consensual. His sentencing is scheduled for June 19.

The jury deliberated for over 19 hours before confirming that Zou raped three women in London and seven in China. Judge Rosina Cottage labeled him a “dangerous and predatory sexual offender,” predicting a lengthy prison term. Zou was also convicted of multiple counts of voyeurism and drug possession, while he was acquitted of a few lesser charges.

Zou, who online operated under the name Pakho, targeted fellow students of Chinese descent, befriending them through WeChat and dating apps before drugging them at his residences or other locations in China. Metropolitan Police Commander Kevin Southworth commended the two women who bravely testified against Zou and pointed out that he may have harmed many more individuals.

Open discussions during the trial revealed concerns regarding the adequacy of translation services provided to victims, raising significant issues about their treatment. Zou moved to the UK in 2017 for educational purposes, studying at multiple institutions including Queen’s University Belfast and UCL. The president of UCL expressed support for the survivors and commended the courage of the women who came forward to report the abuses.

Zhenhao Zou’s conviction illustrates a troubling case involving multiple victims and severe criminal behavior. With potential evidence suggesting a larger pool of victims, it raises critical discussions on victim support and the need for improved investigation methods in such serious cases. The bravery shown by the victims in testifying is commendable, and continued police investigations aim to prevent further harm and bring justice to those affected.

Original Source: apnews.com