Met Police submit evidence file to CPS over new allegations against Zhenhao Zou
Five women reported after a public appeal and two unidentified victims are included; detectives await a charging decision from prosecutors
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Metropolitan Police detectives submitted a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service on 4 September 2026. The submission follows reports made by five women who came forward after a police appeal and includes two further alleged offences involving unidentified women. Detectives are now waiting for the CPS to decide whether to bring charges.
Background to the investigation
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Zhenhao Zou, a Chinese PhD student who lived in London, was convicted in 2025 of multiple sexual offences, including rape. The court sentenced him to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 24 years. After the trial, detectives issued a public appeal asking any additional potential victim‑survivors to contact the police.
New reports and police response
Since the appeal, five women have reported alleged offences to the Met. Detectives assessed each report and ensured the women received support from specialist officers. The evidence file also contains allegations of rape involving two women who remain unidentified. The police have not disclosed any further details about these victims.
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I would like to thank the women who have come forward and spoken to our officers since our appeal. Every report will be treated seriously, handled with care and sensitivity, and investigated thoroughly by specially trained officers.
Angela Craggs, Detective Chief Superintendent
Detective Chief Superintendent Angela Craggs said the file submission marks a step forward in the investigation. She added that detectives will continue to liaise with the CPS while prosecutors consider the evidence. The police also confirmed that separate enquiries into alleged assaults in China are ongoing.
The CPS has not yet announced a charging decision for any of the new allegations. Detectives will keep the CPS updated as the investigation develops. Women who believe they may have been affected are urged to contact the Met at survivors@met.police.uk or call 101, quoting CAD1258/04SEP26. Independent support is available through Rape Crisis on 0808 500 2222.
Questions this report answers
+What new evidence has the police submitted to the CPS?
Detectives have handed a file that includes allegations from five women who responded to a police appeal and two further alleged offences involving unidentified women. The file covers claims of rape and administering a substance with intent to commit a sexual offence.
+Has Zhenhao Zou been charged with any new offences?
No charging decision has been made for the new allegations. Detectives are awaiting a response from the Crown Prosecution Service before any further charges can be laid.
+How can potential victims contact the police?
Potential victims can email survivors@met.police.uk or call 101 from within the UK, quoting reference CAD1258/04SEP26. The Met has offered specialist support to anyone who comes forward.
+What support is available for survivors?
Survivors can contact Rape Crisis on its 24‑hour line at 0808 500 2222 for independent assistance. The police also provide specialist officers to support those who report offences.
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