GWENT Police have said reports nationally of incidents of drink spiking and drugging by injection are “very concerning” - but stressed similar cases had not been reported locally.
On Wednesday, home secretary Priti Patel asked police forces for an urgent update on the issue, after a number of cases being reported nationally - including more than one of a woman being injected with an unknown substance.
The petition sets out that this could be in the form of a pat down search or metal detector, “but must involve measures being put in place to ensure the safety of the public.”
“There are too many cases of weapons and 'date rape' drugs being used in clubs,” it continues. “It begs the question, why aren't nightclubs required to do more to prevent harmful items making it into their clubs?”
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When asked about the home secretary’s request about the issue, a Gwent Police spokeswoman told the Argus that the reports were “very concerning”, and they would be working with clubs and pubs in the region to keep people safe on nights out.
“Gwent Police will thoroughly investigate all reports of drink spiking,” she said.
“While this isn't a trend we have seen in our own force, the incidents reported nationally are very concerning.
“We work closely with licensed premises and local authorities in our area and will ensure that further steps are taken to raise awareness and keep patrons safe.”
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