Police in Bexleyheath have been raising awareness about the dangers of spiking during Freshers’ Week and say that they are “focused in removing predators who intend to inflict harm onto others off our streets.”.

On Friday, September 27, local officers patrolled Sidcup and Bexleyheath Broadway, educating students on how to stay safe and recognise the warning signs of spiking.

They also carried out activities like swabbing toilets for drugs, handing out spiking prevention materials to students and positioning officers in known hotspot areas for serious violence and crime.

The campaign is a collaborative effort between the police and local businesses, including bars and clubs, as well as organisations such as the Safer Business Network, Drinkaware, and Stamp Out Spiking.

Officers aimed to correct myths surrounding spiking and encouraged students to be vigilant when out socializing.

Spiking, which often involves the addition of drugs or alcohol to someone’s drink, can be challenging to investigate due to limited evidence.

Police stress the importance of early reporting, as this increases the likelihood of gathering evidence and identifying offenders.

Officers use early evidence kits to help detect whether someone has been spiked, providing valuable information to support investigations and pinpoint high-risk areas.

Students are encouraged to report any suspicions of spiking, either by notifying staff or calling 999 in an emergency.

The Met Police has also provided guidance on how to recognize symptoms of spiking, which include confusion, nausea, disorientation, and poor coordination.

The police urge anyone who believes they or someone they know has been spiked to report it immediately to improve the chances of apprehending those responsible and preventing further incidents.

Police Sergeant Steve Watson, who led the operation in Bexleyheath, said: “A targeted policing operation conducted in Bexleyheath Broadway and Sidcup resulted in a safe evening for students that were out enjoying the night time economy.

“Aside from one arrest that was made for domestic harassment offences, I'm glad that increased police presence and speaking with students ensured a tame evening with minimal crime.

“Our partnerships with local pub and bar owners, security and charities has helped raise awareness and educate students of the dangers of spiking and the importance of being vigilant when drinking with friends.

“We remain focused in removing predators who intend to inflict harm onto others off our streets.”

Eren Bessim, Training and Development Manager from the Safer Business Network said: “Teaching businesses and teams on how to deal and spot vulnerability and how to respond if someone has been spiked is central to what we do.

“The collaboration between Safer Business Network and the MPS focusses on creating safer environments in the hospitality sector and beyond.

“The training also promotes best practices in reporting incidents, supporting victims, and fostering a culture of safety and awareness within businesses.

“Our partnership is a collective commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals, ensuring safer spaces, and addressing issues such as spiking, harassment, and other threats to public safety.”