Chinese Student Convicted as ‘Smart and Charming Predator’ in Shocking UK Sex Crimes
A former international student from China, branded a “smart and charming predator” by prosecutors, has been found guilty of numerous brutal sexual offences against women in both the UK and China.
Elephant and Castle Man Guilty of Multiple Rapes
Zhenhao Zou, 28, once based in Elephant and Castle, was convicted in March of 11 counts of rape, three counts of voyeurism, false imprisonment, drug possession with intent to commit sexual offences, and more. He faces a “very long” jail sentence at his Thursday sentencing, Judge Rosina Cottage warned.
Harrowing Evidence Revealed in Month-Long Trial
The court heard how Zou lured mainly Chinese student victims via WeChat and dating apps before inviting them to flats in Russell Square and Elephant and Castle. There, he spiked their drinks with butanediol—a sedative linked to serial killer Stephen Port—to drug and assault them.
- Police seized hundreds of hours of horrifying footage showing Zou raping unconscious women.
- They uncovered a “trophy box” stuffed with women’s underwear and ID documents.
- More than 50 potential victims are suspected, with at least two UK and seven Chinese victims confirmed.
- Over 20 new alleged victims have come forward since media coverage began.
Court Details Disturbing Modus Operandi
Zou used pipettes to spike drinks and control his victims. One woman told jurors she was trapped and assaulted repeatedly after being forced to drink heavily. Another victim, currently in China, described being raped unconscious in university accommodation.
Well-Educated, Wealthy Facade Masked Dark Crimes
Zou arrived in the UK in 2017 to study mechanical engineering at Queen’s University Belfast and later pursued a master’s and PhD at UCL in London. Police say he flaunted a wealthy, stylish image with designer clothes, a Rolex, and even cosmetic surgery — all to deceive victims.
International Investigation Underway
Most attacks happened in London and Beijing. UK law allowed prosecution for crimes committed abroad since Zou lives in Britain and acts were criminal in both countries. Chinese police cooperated, but no Chinese properties have been searched yet. Authorities are working with platforms like WeChat and Little Red Book to appeal for more victims.
Police Urge More Victims to Come Forward
“This was a disturbing and calculated campaign of abuse. If you believe you were affected, please come forward. You will be treated with sensitivity and care,” said a Metropolitan Police spokesperson.
Investigators warn many victims may not realise they were drugged and abused. Zou, also known as “Pakho” online, remains the focus of ongoing enquiries.
Chilling Parallels to UK’s Worst Serial Rapists
The case draws eerie comparisons to notorious offenders Reynhard Sinaga and Stephen Port. Like them, Zou drugged victims and kept vast archives of abuse. Police fear the true scale of his crimes may be far bigger than known.
How You Can Help
If you or someone you know may be a victim of Zhenhao Zou, contact the Met Police’s Specialist Crime Command or report anonymously via Crimestoppers.
- Rape Crisis England & Wales: 0808 802 9999
- Victim Support: 0808 168 9111
- Met Police non-emergency: 101
