A Chinese businessman who systematically drugged and filmed sexual assaults on dozens of women using hidden cameras throughout London has been sentenced to life in prison, exposing how predators exploit vulnerable communities while authorities struggle to protect victims from sophisticated criminal enterprises.
Story Highlights
- Chao Xu received life sentence with 14-year minimum for serial sexual offences and voyeurism
- Used recruitment business as front to target vulnerable Chinese women new to London
- Deployed hidden cameras across multiple locations and incapacitated victims with GHB and scopolamine
- Up to 20 additional women came forward claiming they were secretly filmed
- Case demonstrates exploitation of migrant communities and professional networking environments
Systematic Predation Through Professional Networks
Chao Xu, a 33-year-old international law graduate, weaponized London’s professional networking environment to identify and target vulnerable Chinese women. The businessman established a recruitment company specifically designed to lure Chinese nationals to London under the pretense of employment opportunities.
His calculated approach included organizing networking events at his £700,000 Greenwich riverside apartment and utilizing WeWork offices in Canary Wharf, creating false environments of professional legitimacy that masked his predatory intentions.
Technology-Facilitated Sexual Violence
Xu’s criminal enterprise demonstrated sophisticated use of surveillance technology to document his crimes. He systematically installed hidden cameras in bedroom fixtures, bathrooms, wardrobes, air fresheners, and sanitary products across multiple locations.
The predator developed a signature drink called the “Spring of Life” laced with incapacitating drugs including GHB and scopolamine. Authorities recovered thousands of recorded assaults and approximately six million WeChat messages documenting his activities, revealing the extensive scope of his criminal documentation.
Law Enforcement Response and Judicial Assessment
Detective Superintendent Lewis Sanderson characterized Xu as “among the most dangerous and prolific sexual offenders we have ever encountered.” Judge Christopher Grout imposed a life sentence with a minimum 14-year custodial term, determining that Xu posed a high risk of sexual and psychological harm to women.
The case emerged when one victim regained consciousness after being assaulted, confronted Xu, and provided his phone and PIN to police, triggering the comprehensive investigation that exposed his criminal network.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The case highlights the vulnerability of migrant communities to predatory targeting, particularly women new to the country who lack established support systems. Up to 20 additional women have come forward since the initial investigation, claiming they may have been secretly filmed by Xu.
Authorities continue analyzing the six million WeChat messages recovered from his devices, suggesting the full scope of his criminal activity remains under investigation. This case establishes important precedent for prosecuting technology-facilitated sexual offences while demonstrating the need for enhanced protection of vulnerable populations.
London businessman jailed for life after filming his sex attacks on women https://t.co/GApnyqFFNy
— vikram dodd (@VikramDodd) November 14, 2025
The systematic nature of Xu’s crimes and his exploitation of professional environments to target vulnerable women underscores the importance of community awareness and the courage of victims who came forward to expose his predatory behavior. His life sentence ensures public protection while validating the experiences of the numerous women he victimized through his calculated criminal enterprise.
Sources:
Chinese businessman jailed for life in London for serial sexual offences
Rapist who filmed assault has sentence increased
