Zhenhao Zou sentenced to life for multiple rapes in the UK and China

In early 2023, a Chinese postgraduate student, Zhenhao Zou, was sentenced to life imprisonment by a London court for committing a series of heinous sexual offenses. His crimes included drugging, raping, and filming his assaults on 10 women in both the UK and China. Investigations revealed that Zou had meticulously planned these attacks, showcasing a predatory behavior that targeted young Chinese women, often luring them into his flat under the pretense of socializing or studying. He recorded his assaults with hidden cameras, leading to the identification of only two of the ten victims. The gravity of his actions prompted a thorough investigation from the London Metropolitan police, which subsequently uncovered evidence that suggested he could have assaulted over 50 additional women across different locations, including his home country of China. Judge Rosina Cottage described Zou as “calculated and predatory,” noting the devastating impact his actions had on the victims, who described long-lasting psychological trauma and fear of potential retaliation from Zou's powerful family. This case has opened the door for more victims to come forward, with over 20 women indicating they might also be among his targets. The severity of Zou's actions has drawn attention to the need for continued vigilance and support for victims of sexual violence, establishing Zhou as potentially one of the most prolific offenders in recent history. Authorities continue to investigate and compile evidence in hopes of holding Zou accountable for every crime he may have committed, reinforcing the justice system's commitment to addressing sexual violence and ensuring victim safety.