What's happened
Chao Xu, 33, a London-based Chinese national, pleaded guilty to multiple sexual offenses, including drugging women and filming non-consensual acts. Police believe hundreds of victims across the UK and China. He will serve at least 14 years in prison, with investigations ongoing into additional victims.
What's behind the headline?
This case exemplifies the dangers of seemingly professional networking events being exploited for criminal purposes. Xu's use of drugs and covert filming highlights a calculated pattern of predatory behavior. The police's belief that hundreds of victims remain unidentified underscores the scale of the threat. The case also raises questions about online learning and the potential for offenders to learn tactics through digital platforms. The sentencing signals a firm stance on sexual violence, but the ongoing investigation suggests many victims are still unaccounted for, both in the UK and China. This story will likely influence future policies on surveillance and victim protection, emphasizing the need for vigilance at social and professional gatherings.
What the papers say
The Reuters report details Xu's arrest and guilty plea, emphasizing the extent of his crimes and the evidence found, including secret cameras and thousands of images. The New York Times highlights his background, the scope of offenses, and the police's belief in hundreds of victims, drawing parallels with similar cases like Zou Zhenhao. Sky News provides additional context on Xu's methods, including his 'Spring of Life' cocktail and covert filming tactics, and notes the international dimension of his crimes, with victims in both the UK and China. All sources agree on the severity and scale of Xu's offenses, with some variation in emphasis on his background and the investigation's scope.
How we got here
Xu moved to Britain in 2016 to study law and later ran a recruitment business. He hosted networking events at his home, which he used to facilitate criminal behavior, including drugging women and installing hidden cameras. The case emerged after a victim reported being assaulted at a London event in 2025, leading to a police investigation that uncovered extensive evidence of abuse and voyeurism.
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