Predators Using Drug-Laced Vapes to Spike Victims, Warns Police

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 23, 2026

The Metropolitan Police have warned about an increase in drug-laced vaping devices used to spike victims, with spiking incidents now more common at private gatherings rather than public venues. Over 2,700 spiking offenses were recorded last year—a 20% rise—with few resulting in charges due to challenges in evidence collection, prompting calls for timely reporting from victims.

The Metropolitan Police have issued a warning about a rising trend in the use of drug-laced vaping devices to spike victims, alongside the continued misuse of prescription and over-the-counter medications. Detectives have identified vapes containing substances such as THC—the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis—spice, antihistamines, and travel sickness pills that induce drowsiness.

According to the Met, there has been a shift in spiking incidents, with more cases now occurring at private gatherings in homes or flats rather than in bars and clubs. Over the past year, the force recorded more than 2,700 spiking-related offenses, marking a 20 percent increase compared to the previous year. Despite the high number of reports, only 131 cases resulted in a criminal charge, caution, or court summons, highlighting the challenges of investigating these crimes. One significant difficulty is that the drugs involved are absorbed quickly by the body, often complicating evidence collection.

Detective Superintendent Dan Thompson, who leads the Met's spiking investigations, remarked on this evolving pattern. “The nature of spiking is changing. We’re seeing offenders use a wider range of substances than ever before,” he said. He encouraged victims to report suspected spiking incidents promptly, ideally within 12 hours, but emphasized that individuals should not hesitate to come forward even if more time has elapsed.

This alert follows the conviction and sentencing last year of two prolific sex offenders linked to spiking and sexual assault in London. Chao Xu, 34, was handed a life sentence for 24 sexual offenses, including rape and voyeurism. Similarly, 29-year-old PhD student Zhenhao Zou received a life sentence after drugging and raping ten women, all incidents occurring within their residences.

The Metropolitan Police continue to prioritize efforts to tackle spiking, urging vigilance among the public and swift reporting to improve the chances of successful investigations and prosecutions.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.