Police from Irlam and Cadishead’s Neighbourhood Policing Team have distributed more than 120 spiking and testing kits as part of the force’s Winter of Action work.
The team received funding to supply the kits to multiple pubs and bars across their patch – giving them to workers and customers across the seasonal period.
The work comes as part of GMP’s commitment to the Home Office-led Winter of Action campaign which is cracking down on town centre and high-street crime – in particular retail crime, anti-social behaviour, and the night-time economy.
The work on the latter has seen dedicated patrol plans in place, enhanced visibility in nightlife hotspots, and close work with local businesses and partners.
Spiking, despite the assumption by some of it not being a crime, is a criminal act which can carry a custodial sentence, and we are committed to preventing this issue as much as possible.
Multiple drugs can be used to spike drinks, including the commonly known ‘date rape’ drug, but also other illegal drugs such as cocaine, ecstasy, or ketamine.
These substances can cause a drink to smell and taste differently. It is an offence to add additional alcohol to someone’s drink without their consent too.
The kits include bottle and glass covers designed to safeguard drinks, test strips to check if drinks have been spiked, and reading material on what to do if your drink has been spiked.
Inspector Steve Corless, from GMP’s Salford Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “The local team have been out whenever possible as part of the Winter of Action campaign, from proactive hotspot patrols to supermarket security check-ins.
“In particular, the spiking prevention work has been well-received by local businesses, and I am glad that we have been able to provide lots of kits for distribution to those who need them.
“Our district has a long-standing pub-watch scheme that reflets our unwavering commitment to protecting our residents and local businesses. We will continue to do what we can to provide the best service possible to our communities.”
GMP want to make it clear that drink spiking is never the fault of the victim, and everyone should be able to enjoy a night out without fear of spiking. However, there are some preventive measures below that everyone should be aware of, that may help to reduce the risk.
