Met Police warn of drug-laced vapes and medicines used in London spiking

The Metropolitan Police have issued a warning regarding the evolving tactics of offenders who are using drug-laced vapes and over-the-counter medicines to spike victims across London. Investigators have encountered incidents involving vapes containing THC and spice, alongside elevated doses of common medications such as antihistamines and travel sickness tablets, which induce drowsiness.

A growing trend has also been observed in incidents occurring at private parties held in flats or houses, moving away from traditional venues like bars and clubs. The force recorded more than 2,700 spiking-related offences in the past year. Of these, 131 resulted in a charge, caution, or summons, representing a 20 per cent increase compared to the previous year. More than half of the individuals targeted were aged between 18 and 35.

Challenges in Investigation

Spiking investigations present significant challenges due to the rapid metabolism of substances, prompting police to urge victims to report incidents as soon as possible. The Met has also warned that online self-testing kits may fail to identify many over-the-counter or prescription medications, making prompt reporting essential.

Detective Superintendent Dan Thompson, who leads the Met's spiking investigations, stated that reporting within the first 12 hours is crucial. This timeframe allows officers to secure CCTV footage, obtain forensic evidence, identify witnesses, and make arrests. He emphasised that individuals should not hesitate to come forward, even if some time has passed.

Previous Convictions

In separate investigations last year, two sex offenders were jailed for targeting multiple women at their flats. Rapist Chao Xu, 34, was sentenced in November 2025 to life imprisonment for 24 sexual offences, including rape and assault, committed over three years. He had used a drink he called "the spring of life," which contained GHB and scopolamine, a travel sickness medicine.

Additionally, Chinese PhD student Zhenhao Zou, 29, received a life sentence for drugging and raping 10 women in London and China. He was found to have kept a trophy box of victims' belongings and filmed nine of the attacks.

What Happens Next

Awareness campaigns are currently being held throughout Freshers' Week at numerous universities across London to inform students about the risks and encourage reporting.