British woman jailed for blackmail after accusing banker of rape in Hong Kong

British woman Rose was sentenced to five years in prison for blackmail and three years for perverting the course of justice, with one year to be served consecutively, after a Hong Kong court found she fabricated a rape allegation to extort £100,000 ($134,000) from a banker whose identity was withheld. Judge Adriana Tse delivered the verdict in March, stating that Rose had travelled to Hong Kong on 31 January 2024 after meeting the man in Thailand a month earlier. The alleged incident occurred on 1 February at the banker’s apartment, and the prosecution’s case centred on WhatsApp messages exchanged in the hours and days afterward. In a message sent the following morning, Rose wrote: “Are you annoyed I didn't privation to have sex,” to which the man replied: “What no of people not. Was impressed by your restraint.” Later that day she added: “You violated me past night, I didn't wanna have sex.” He responded: “I'm truly profoundly sorry, I was somewhat drunk and I misread your signals, it's no excuse and I know it doesn't make it any better.” In a later exchange Rose stated: “You basically raped me.” The man replied: “That's not what I'm into at all and I feel sick.” The pair subsequently discussed compensation. According to the written judgement, the man agreed to reimburse Rose for her travel and accommodation. Rose messaged: “Send me the exact amount you owe me for everything. Think about that. Think carefully.” He transferred £5,000 and attempted to send another £5,000. Rose then wrote: “You've given 10% of what I'm owed. 100% of my soul gone.” The man replied: “But I don't have 100k, I have no way of paying you that.” Rose reported the alleged rape to police on 3 February. The banker was arrested and questioned before being released without charge. Rose was arrested the next day and later charged with blackmail and perverting the course of justice.