Belgian businessman denies three sex charges on visits to Hong Kong

A Belgian businessman yesterday pleaded not guilty to raping two Hong Kong women and indecently assaulting a third during his visits to the city.

The three alleged victims, identified as W, X and Y, met Frank Laurent, 32, through social media sites and were assaulted in his hotel room between May and October 2013, the Court of First Instance heard.

W, a 27-year-old clerk, said she got to know Laurent in late 2012 through a social media site, the court heard.

She said Laurent, who claimed to be a Canadian who lived in Montreal, suggested they meet in Hong Kong. As they were discussing the meeting, she said Laurent asked her whether she would bring a condom.

She said she made it clear to him that "she would not do that". As he did not pursue the matter, she felt he had understood and she agreed to meet him on May 1.

She said Laurent gave her a hug when they met and they went for dinner. During the meal she said Laurent told her: "With my blood and wisdom as well as your personality and look, we will create a product of love with good quality."

She told the court: "I felt shock and embarrassment as a product of love indicated a sexual relationship. I would not have sex with a man that I date on the first night."