Met Police warn of vape and antihistamine spiking in private parties

Metropolitan Police officials have alerted the public that spiking tactics are evolving, with perpetrators now adding THC, synthetic spice and large doses of common medicines to vapes to incapacitate targets. These attacks are occurring more often in domestic environments, including house parties and student accommodation, rather than traditional nightlife venues. Because the substances break down rapidly, investigators have a limited window to collect usable forensic evidence, making early reporting crucial.

The force recorded more than 2,700 spiking-related offences in the last year, a 20% increase, yet only 131 led to formal action. Most victims fall within the 18-35 age bracket, prompting specific warnings for university students during Freshers’ Week. Detective Superintendent Dan Thompson emphasized the importance of reporting even delayed incidents, and highlighted recent severe sentences handed to repeat offenders such as Chao Xu and Zhenhao Zou.