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
