Surge in Allegations Against Convicted Rapist Reveals Greater Danger

New claims against Zhenhao Zou, a Chinese PhD student recently convicted of multiple rapes, indicate that his history of assault may be extensive. With 23 additional allegations emerging, victims share their traumatic experiences and the challenges of reporting, highlighting the need for better support systems for victims of sexual violence.

Twenty-three more women have stepped forward with allegations against Zhenhao Zou, a Chinese PhD student recently found guilty in London for drugging and raping ten women across two continents. Following his conviction, it was revealed that detectives had unearthed video evidence from Zou himself, which points to potentially 50 additional victims. Authorities are currently working to trace these women, as the police believe Zou's "offending group is far larger than previously understood."

Some of the women who have come forward in recent weeks have shared their harrowing experiences with BBC World Service. One victim recounted being raped by Zou in his hometown, where her drink was spiked, rendering her conscious but immobile. Another woman detailed an incident in London where she woke to find Zou filming her while she was being assaulted.

Among those who testified against Zou during his trial, one victim expressed remorse for not coming forward sooner, believing that her action could have prevented other assaults. Both she and other survivors are grappling with the guilt that comes from knowing that other women were harmed after them.

One of the new accusers, who has chosen to keep her identity anonymous, has shared her account of being assaulted by Zou while out with friends in London back in 2021. She felt unprepared to report the incident until Zou's trial took place. The victim explained that she met Zou through mutual friends and spent time with him at his upscale student accommodation. After consuming drinks, she quickly became dizzy, only to wake up to Zou inappropriately touching her and filming the incident. Despite her attempt to escape, she was physically restrained until she threatened to scream for help.

Another woman, referred to as "Rachel," described being drugged and raped by Zou during a date in China. She shared that although she initially considered contacting authorities, she feared that proving non-consent would be difficult and was concerned about the potential fallout on her personal and familial life.

The Metropolitan Police are now tasked with investigating the influx of new allegations. Commander Kevin Southworth has acknowledged the gravity of the situation, suggesting that the number of victims may be more significant than previously thought. Moreover, authorities are contemplating a second trial for Zou, highlighting the seriousness of the ongoing investigations.

In response to the growing number of reports, support organizations are warning that foreign nationals face unique challenges when reporting sexual crimes in the UK. Language barriers and fears of stigma or repercussions can inhibit victims from coming forward. Police efforts have since been reassessed to ensure that survivors feel supported and validated in the reporting process.

As many victims band together to share their stories, they hope that their courage will inspire others to speak out. The ongoing investigation serves as a crucial reminder of the systemic issues surrounding sexual assault and the importance of empowering victims to seek justice.