FOLLOWING news of recent UK spiking incidents – including reports of a form of injection – police are working with venues, with the public urged to be cautious.

Almost 200 drink spiking incidents - involving men and women - have been reported to police forces across the UK over the past two months.

The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) said there have been 198 confirmed reports of drink spiking in September and October across various parts of the UK, plus 24 reports of some form of injection.

Ask Frank has the following tips to help people avoid drink spiking:

  • Always buy your own drink and watch it being poured.
  • Don't accept drinks from strangers.
  • Never leave your drink unattended.
  • Don't drink or taste anyone else's drink.
  • Throw your drink away if you think it tastes odd.

South Wales Police is aware of public concern around reports of spiking in towns and cities around the UK – both through putting alcohol or drugs in someone’s drink, or the possibility of people being “spiked” by needles or syringes.

A spokeswoman for the force said: “We have received a small number of reports from people who believe this might have happened to them and these are currently under investigation.

“We take all reports seriously and encourage anyone who believes they have been a victim of spiking in any form to contact us.

“South Wales Police has an excellent history of partnership working and we provide training to staff at city centre licensed premises to help them identify and safeguard vulnerable people and we regularly see examples of where this training has paid off.”

Ask Frank says if you think you have been spiked you should:

  • Seek help from a trusted friend or the venue management; don’t do anywhere with a stranger or acquaintance.
  • Get a close friend to get you out ASAP and take you home, or hospital if you feel seriously unwell. If you go home ensure that someone you trust stays with you until the effects have worn off.
  • Don’t hesitate to call for medical help if you need it and report to the police.

Should you need to contact South Wales Police you can: