Chinese PhD student Zhenhao Zou’s life sentence exposes a hidden nightmare as police uncover evidence of dozens of drugged, raped, and filmed victims across two continents in one of the most prolific serial rape cases in recent history.
Key Takeaways
- Zhenhao Zou, a 28-year-old Chinese PhD student, has been sentenced to life with a minimum of 24 years for drugging and raping at least 10 women in the UK and China
- Police discovered 1,664 hours of footage including 58 videos of rapes, suggesting there could be more than 50 additional victims
- Zou used social media and dating websites to target victims, primarily Chinese students, before drugging them at his apartment
- The “highly intelligent” mechanical engineering student at University College London kept a “trophy box” of victims’ belongings
- At least 24 additional women have come forward since his conviction, with investigators continuing to identify victims from the extensive video evidence
The Making of a “Sexual Predator”
Behind the façade of academic excellence, Zhenhao Zou led a disturbing double life as a calculated sexual predator. The 28-year-old mechanical engineering student at University College London meticulously planned his attacks, using various social media platforms and dating apps to target fellow Chinese students. Under the alias “Pakho,” Zou would invite women to his apartment under the pretense of studying or having drinks, where he would then drug and rape them while filming the assaults. His systematic approach reveals a calculated pattern of behavior that continued undetected for years.
“A highly manipulative and intelligent young man who gave no thought at all of the wishes and feelings of the women,” said Judge Cottage KC, during sentencing at Inner London Crown Court.
The court heard how Zou, described as a “very bright young man” wearing a “charming mask,” was convicted of 28 offenses, including 11 rapes, voyeurism, and possession of extreme pornography and drugs used specifically for sexual offenses. His attacks spanned from 2019 to 2023, with crimes committed both in London and in China. The investigation revealed Zou had an obsessive interest in extreme pornography and openly bragged about having multiple new sexual partners weekly. This behavior demonstrates a complete disregard for women’s dignity and safety, treating them as objects for his perverse satisfaction.
The Horrifying Scale of Zou’s Crimes
When investigators searched Zou’s London apartment, they uncovered evidence of crimes far beyond what was initially suspected. Police discovered a shocking 1,664 hours of footage, including 58 videos documenting rapes of unconscious women. Even more disturbing was the discovery of a “trophy box” containing items believed to be “souvenirs” taken from his victims. The magnitude of evidence suggests Zou may have victimized more than 50 women, with only a small percentage identified so far. This case represents a systematic campaign of sexual violence rarely seen in scope.
“The sheer scale of his offending, which spanned two countries, makes him one of the most prolific predators we have ever seen,” stated DCI Richard Mackenzie from the Metropolitan Police.
The full extent of Zou’s crimes continues to unfold as the investigation progresses. Since his conviction, at least 24 additional women have come forward with allegations against him. Of the nine rapes Zou filmed as “souvenirs,” only two victims had been identified by the trial, with a third coming forward later. Police have launched an international effort to identify more victims who may be unaware they were drugged and assaulted. The cross-border nature of his crimes adds complexity to the investigation, requiring cooperation between British and Chinese authorities.
Justice and Recovery for Victims
The survivors of Zou’s attacks have described severe emotional and physical trauma that will impact them for years to come. One victim expressed a profound loss of faith in people’s inherent goodness following her ordeal. The Metropolitan Police have issued urgent appeals for other potential victims to come forward, promising empathy and respect in handling their cases. This approach recognizes the unique challenges faced by international students who may be unfamiliar with the UK legal system or face cultural barriers to reporting sexual assault.
“Thanks to the remarkable efforts of our officers and prosecutors, a dangerous and cowardly offender will now spend the next 24 years behind bars,” said Commander Kevin Southworth of the Metropolitan Police.
Zou received a life sentence with a minimum term of 24 years, though he will be eligible for parole after serving 22 years and 227 days when accounting for time already spent on remand. This sentencing sends a strong message about the severity with which the UK justice system views such predatory behavior. The case highlights the importance of international cooperation in bringing sex offenders to justice, particularly when crimes cross borders. Prosecutor Saira Pike commended the victims for their courage, noting: “They have been incredibly strong and brave,” which proved crucial in securing Zou’s conviction and lengthy sentence.
