Zhenhao
Zou, convicted of raping 10 women in the UK and China, may have assaulted over
50 more, London police say as new victims continue to come forward.
London — British police have issued a global appeal after 23 additional
women came forward with allegations against Zhenhao Zou, a convicted serial
rapist who may have attacked more than 50 women across multiple countries.
Zou, 28,
was found guilty in March of 11 counts of rape, false imprisonment, voyeurism,
and a range of other charges, including the possession of extreme pornography
and controlled substances with intent to commit sexual offenses.
Described
by investigators as a "dangerous and prolific sexual predator," Zou
targeted victims across London, Belfast, China, and possibly other
international locations, using WeChat and dating apps to lure female students
of Chinese heritage.
According
to the Metropolitan Police, Zou would invite women for drinks, drug them, and
sexually assault them while they were unconscious and defenseless. He also
filmed many of his attacks using hidden cameras and mobile devices, and kept
trophies from his victims, such as jewelry and clothing.
“Zou
manipulated and drugged women in order to prey on them in the most cowardly
way,” police said.
Since his
conviction, new victims from the UK, China, and beyond have contacted
authorities. The police are now urging survivors and witnesses to come forward
via a secure online portal, believing the number of victims may exceed 50.
Zou,
originally from Dongguan, China, was a PhD student at University College London
(UCL). He lived in various parts of the world, including China, Northern
Ireland, and London, which complicates the scope of the investigation.
He was
arrested in January 2024, following a report from a courageous survivor.
Prosecutors praised the bravery of the women who stepped forward, stating there
is “no doubt” their testimony was key to Zou’s conviction.
“These
courageous women have been incredibly strong. Their bravery has likely saved
future victims,” said a spokesperson for the Crown Prosecution Service.
Zou’s
sentencing is expected later this year. The case has sparked outrage and
renewed calls for stronger safeguards on dating platforms and better support
systems for international students vulnerable to sexual exploitation.
Anyone
with information about Zou or his crimes is urged to contact the Metropolitan
Police through their secure reporting portal.