Police unveil tool to crack down on vape spiking

New detection technology is being deployed across London in a concerted effort to combat vape-spiking, with operations targeting bars, clubs, and party boats.

- Jordan Reynolds, The Independent

The initiative follows serious incidents, including the hospitalisation of children as young as 14 in southeast London after cannabis products were reportedly placed in vapes, according to Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ben Russell of the Metropolitan Police. The advanced equipment, already utilised in nightclubs, festivals, concerts, and schools, enables the rapid identification of drugs such as THC or spice in suspected vapes.

This crackdown addresses a growing concern for police regarding vapes being tampered with and subsequently shared among young people or distributed in social environments.

Complementing these efforts, the Met is also employing a range of mobile drug-testing devices. These include near infrared detectors, supported by a mobile phone application, capable of quickly identifying controlled drugs in powders and tablets. On Thursday, Home Office minister Jess Phillips joined the force's Marine Support Unit as they patrolled party boats at Westminster Pier, aiming to prevent and identify illicit activity on the river.