Schoolchildren in west London are being targeted with vapes spiked with dangerous drugs, the Met Police has warned. The distribution of these harmful substances is taking place through social media apps like Snapchat, posing a serious health risk to young people.
A letter sent to parents at a local school highlighted the dangers of vapes containing drugs such as spice and THC. Synthetic cannabinoids, commonly known as spice, can lead to severe health problems including chest pains, seizures, extreme anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. These substances have been a concern in UK prisons for years.
Law enforcement authorities have seized numerous vapes from students in recent weeks, with some devices testing positive for dangerous Class B substances. The letter emphasized the importance of informing parents about the hazards associated with unregulated vape pens, especially given the rise in related incidents.
The issue of vape spiking has also been reported in other parts of London, with incidents involving children being hospitalized after inhaling spice-laced vapes. The use of vapes as a target for spiking has become more prevalent, with thousands of cases emerging in England and Wales.
Experts have raised concerns about the lack of awareness surrounding vape spiking and its potential consequences. Dawn Dines, chief executive of Stamp Out Spiking, shared a disturbing account of a mother-of-three who was spiked with a vape and left unable to move or call for help.
As awareness of vape spiking grows, organizations like Talk about Trust are working to educate young people about the risks and encourage safe vaping practices. The motives behind vape spiking can range from sexual assault to robbery, highlighting the need for vigilance and caution when using these devices.
The alarming trend of vape spiking serves as a reminder of the importance of staying informed and vigilant to protect against potential harm. Parents, educators, and law enforcement agencies are urged to work together to address this growing threat and ensure the safety of young people in the community.