Now police probe 15 ‘spikings’ in one city
POLICE are investigating 15 nightclub spiking complaints in one Scots city.
NHS Grampian has issued safety advice to revellers after officers revealed that they are probing the alleged incidents in Aberdeen.
The spikings – said to have taken place between September 1 and October 21 – were highlighted at a meeting of the city council’s public protection committee after reports of incidents around the UK. Last night, Girls Night In campaigners called on clubgoers to take part in a onenight boycott of venues across Scotland and the rest of the country to highlight the need for action.
Police said they were investigating a ‘very small number’ of reports involving drink spiking or injection via a needle.
Chief Superintendent George Macdonald, North-east divisional commander, said: ‘We are aware of posts referring to spiking incidents circulating on social media.
‘Our inquiries are ongoing and at this time we do not believe that these reports are linked.
‘Each year we receive a small number of reports of what can be termed spiking, with a small but notable increase in October and November.
‘We are not always able to determine the reasons why a perpetrator carries out an assault in this way, and it may not always be for a sexual purpose.
‘It can put people at significant risk of harm. We will take every report extremely seriously and investigate robustly.
‘Women, and men, should be able to go out for a night out without fear of being spiked. We are working with a range of partners, locally and nationally, to ensure pubs and clubs are safe spaces for all. This includes working with licensees.
‘Anyone who reports having their drink spiked or has been assaulted by whatever means, will be taken seriously.’
NHS Grampian said it was ‘aware’ of the police investigations.
The health board’s consultant in public health, John Mooney, said: ‘We know this is concerning, but it must be remembered these cases are extremely unusual. It remains the case that alcohol is the drug most used to spike drinks, but other substances have been reported.
‘Men and women alike are at risk of being spiked. Spiking can occur, not just in licensed premises, but also at house parties.
‘We all have a part to play in keeping each other safe and reducing the harm caused by alcohol and other drugs – not only by taking sensible precautions on nights out but also by challenging any suspicious behaviour.
‘Whether you know them or not, if you suspect an individual is spiking drinks, call them out on it, or let venue staff know of your concerns.’
Other advice given by the health board includes monitoring alcohol intake and remaining in control.
People are being advised to stick together in groups and have a clear plan for getting home. Ensuring their phone battery is kept charged up is also recommended.
Mr Mooney added: ‘There has been a great deal of coverage of incidents of spiking by injection.
‘Generally speaking, most people will feel the pain of a needle, even if under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
‘Injecting someone with enough drugs to incapacitate them would likely take between 15-20 seconds, long enough for an individual to realise what is happening.’
Anyone who suspects someone they are with has been spiked is encouraged to inform venue staff and prevent them leaving alone.
The health board added that further consumption of alcohol is not advised and incidents should be reported to the police.
Conservative city councillor and finance convener Ryan Houghton said: ‘When it comes to spiking there can be no victim blaming.
‘Recent reports of spiking by injection have caused alarm, particularly among young women.
He stressed that Aberdeen was recognised as a ‘safe-for-all city’.
He added: ‘As a council we’ve asked the police and night life venues to work together more closely and make clear the steps they’re taking to provide assurance to people simply enjoying a night out.’
‘Can put people at significant risk’