Priyanka
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A shocking case of sexual assault involving a Chinese PhD student at University College London (UCL) has emerged. Zhenhao Zhou, a doctoral student, systematically drugged and raped at least five women each month over four years, both in London and China. His victims included Chinese and British students, and he recorded the assaults as personal trophies.
A London court found Zhou guilty of drugging and raping 10 women. Evidence presented in court described him as a calculating predator who used social media and dating apps to find victims. Authorities fear that there could be up to 50 more unidentified victims.
Using Social Media and Dating Apps to Target Victims
Zhou actively searched for new victims through social media platforms and dating apps. He operated under the online alias "Pakho" and built connections with Chinese and British female students. After establishing trust, he invited them for drinks, where he spiked their beverages with drugs. He then took them to his residences in London and China, where he assaulted them.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he continued his crimes, committing at least seven rapes in China. His victims were often unconscious or heavily intoxicated, making them easy targets.
Testimony Reveals Harrowing Details of Abuse
One of the victims testified that Zhou forcibly detained her at his home in May 2023. He made her consume excessive alcohol before dragging her into his bedroom and sexually assaulting her. When she attempted to leave, Zhou refused and forced her to drink more vodka.
Another victim recalled how she pleaded with him not to rape her before losing consciousness, but Zhou ignored her pleas.
Pattern of Sexual Violence and Conviction
Zhou intentionally preyed on sleeping and intoxicated women. In addition to multiple rape charges, he was convicted of:
- Possessing pornography and illegal material
- Possessing drugs used to incapacitate victims
- Sexually assaulting unconscious women
During court proceedings, he admitted to having sex with four new women every month. According to Metropolitan Police Commander Kevin Southworth, video evidence suggests that many more victims may still be unidentified.
Authorities are urging potential victims to come forward and report any incidents related to Zhou’s crimes.
