A POLICE force is investigating seven separate incidents of women being spiked with needles in the last week.

Sussex Police said it initially received two reports from women feeling unwell after nights out in Brighton on Tuesday and into the early hours of Wednesday morning.

In the following days, four women reported having been injected while out in Brighton city centre.

A woman also reported being injected on a night out in Eastbourne on Saturday.

It follows reports of other “spiking” incidents in several parts of the country, including Nottingham and Exeter.

Detectives are supporting the women involved and carrying out thorough investigations into each incident.

The force said all viable lines of enquiry are being explored.

Officers are increasing their late-night patrols and are working closely with partners and licensed premises on initiatives to help keep people safe.

Chief Superintendent Justin Burtenshaw, divisional commander for Brighton and Hove, said: "Everybody has the right to enjoy a night out in safety and we fully understand the concerns around these troubling reports, not only in Sussex but across the country.

“We have recently increased the number of officers making targeted, visible patrols around licensed premises such as restaurants, bars and clubs during the week as well as over the weekend.

“Our licensing teams also work with venues to raise awareness around spiking and regularly hold briefings with security staff prior to opening to make sure measures are in place to keep customers safe.

“Unannounced licensing checks throughout the night provide an additional level of support and if you see our officers out and about, please do speak to them – or licensed security staff - about any concerns or suspicious behaviour.

“Alongside our partners we also support a Safe Space in St Paul’s Church on West Street, a location where people who feel vulnerable or distressed can seek support.

“Please be assured that we take all reports incredibly seriously and ask anybody who believes they may have been a victim of spiking to let police or bar staff know as soon as possible so they can be tested before potential drugs leave their system and evidence can be gathered.

“Reports can also be made to police online, via 101 or by dialling 999 in an emergency.”

The Government website Talk to Frank offers guidance on spiking and can be accessed here https://www.talktofrank.com/news/spiking

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