Detectives investigating convicted rapist Zhenhao Zou have submitted a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) following reports from women who came forward after a public appeal, the Metropolitan Police has said.
Zou, a Chinese PhD student who had been living in London, was convicted in 2025 of multiple offences, including rape, following a lengthy and complex Metropolitan Police investigation. He was sentenced to life imprisonment and ordered to serve a minimum term of 24 years.
Following the conclusion of court proceedings, detectives appealed for additional potential victim-survivors to come forward after investigators uncovered evidence suggesting more women may have been affected by Zou’s offending. A number of women have since contacted police. Detectives assessed each report and ensured those who came forward received support from specialist officers.
The file submitted to the CPS contains evidence relating to several alleged offences, including rape and administering a substance with intent to commit a sexual offence. It relates to reports made by five women who contacted police following the appeal, as well as two further alleged offences of rape involving two women who remain unidentified.
No charging decision has been made in relation to any further offences, and detectives continue to liaise with the CPS as prosecutors consider the evidence.
Separate enquiries remain ongoing into allegations involving women who were allegedly sexually assaulted in China. Detectives continue to pursue all available lines of enquiry and are working to obtain evidence through formal international legal processes.
What happens next in the Zhenhao Zou investigation
Detective Chief Superintendent Angela Craggs, whose team is leading the investigation, said: “I would like to thank the women who have come forward and spoken to our officers since our appeal. We recognise how difficult it can be to report offences of this nature and every woman who has contacted us has shown considerable courage.”
She added: “The submission of this file of evidence marks a significant step in our investigation. While we await a decision from the CPS in relation to allegations concerning women in the UK, our enquiries remain ongoing.”
“We remain committed to supporting victim-survivors and pursuing all available lines of enquiry. I would encourage anyone who believes they may have been affected, or anyone with information that could assist our investigation, to contact us,” she said. “Every report will be treated seriously, handled with care and sensitivity, and investigated thoroughly by specially trained officers.”
Reports can be made by emailing survivors@met.police.uk or by calling 101 from within the UK, quoting CAD1258/04SEP26. Those affected by this case who would like independent support can contact Rape Crisis via its 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line on 0808 500 2222.
Source: Metropolitan Police
