Police warn drug-laced vapes are being used to spike unsuspecting victims

London's Metropolitan Police report that drug-laced vapes are increasingly being used to spike unsuspecting victims, alongside traditional drugs like GHB and scopolamine and even over-the-counter medicines such as antihistamines and travel-sickness tablets. The Met recorded more than 2,700 spiking-related offences in London over the past year, up 20 per cent, with only 131 leading to charges, cautions or summonses, and more than half of victims aged between 18 and 35. Officers note that incidents are shifting from bars and clubs to house parties, flats and student accommodation, where people tend to be less vigilant. Detective Superintendent Dan Thompson said the nature of spiking is changing as offenders widen the range of substances used.

A key concern is that commercial drink-testing kits sold online often cannot detect the prescription and over-the-counter medicines now being used. Even innovative products such as the NarXcup intelligent ice cube, developed by a Madrid start-up, currently only detect scopolamine, with an expanded version not expected until 2027. No single product can promise complete protection.

There is no evidence that vape spiking is specifically rising in Spain; this is a London police warning based on their own cases. Nonetheless, Spain's busy nightlife and shared villa parties make the threat relevant, and the UK, Canada and Andalucía already flag chemical submission in travel advice and protocols. If someone feels unexpectedly drowsy, confused or unwell, they should tell a trusted friend or staff member, avoid leaving alone, preserve the drink or vape as evidence, call 112 in Spain or get to a hospital, and report within 12 hours.

(Source：Euro Weekly News)