GMP issue warning for drink spiking ahead of New Year celebrations - 'Be Drink Aware'

The National Police Chief's Council (NPCC) have released spiking figures and warnings ahead of New Year’s Eve. In September 2021 to August 2022 saw almost 5,000 reports of spiking across England and Wales.

When reported immediately, police are able to test for spiking, provide vital support to the victim and gain a stronger case for prosecution. A huge 4,924 reports have been made over the year, with over half of these reports involving a needle.

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Violence Against Women and Girls, Deputy Chief Constable Maggie Blyth said: "Spiking is a complex and challenging offence to investigate. Drugs pass through the system quickly and there is often limited evidence to identify offenders, which means it’s not easy to get these cases to court.

"In order to have the best chance of identifying drugs and bringing offenders to justice, our message to anyone who thinks they have been spiked is to report early and be tested by the police.

"Don’t let the fact that you might have knowingly taken illegal drugs, stop you from reporting. It’s really important that if you do think you have been spiked and you have taken drugs that you let the officer know so that they have the full picture."

In the first restriction free festive period since the pandemic, clubs, pubs, and bars will be at their busiest - so it’s important to be extra vigilant and know what steps to take if you suspect drink spiking or any other crime.

There are steps you can take to stay safe when drinking on a night out:

- Do not accept a drink that you haven’t seen being prepared

- Socialise with trusted friends and stay together

- Don’t take your eyes off your drink. If you put it down and leave it unattended, don’t pick it back up

- Report anything suspicious to staff and/or the police

Report drink spiking immediately

You can report any crime to GMP by calling 101 or via the GMP website using the reporting tool: www.gmp.police.uk

Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

ALWAYS dial 999 in an emergency.

Support available across Greater Manchester

Operation Lioness equipped licenced premises across some parts of Greater Manchester with vital information, testing kits, and Ask for Angela material to safeguard people on nights out.

GMP have also worked with the GMCA to create the Good Night Out guide, and place additional resources within the night time economy.

Drink spiking is a serious crime. If you do suspect you, or someone else has been a victim of drink spiking, make the manager aware immediately and report it to the police.

Information on drink spiking and date rape drugs

Support on rape and sexual assault

Take a look at Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA)'s 'Good Night Out' guide resources below: 

Five tips for a proper good night out

Safe places and help points

Trusted people and services

How to report or get help

Need to talk to someone?