As South Africans prepare to celebrate the New Year, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has warned the public about a rise in drink-spiking incidents linked to organised criminal syndicates at drinking and leisure venues, reports Cape {town} Etc.
According to The Citizen, SAPS says the spike in reports comes from areas including Gauteng and the North-West and both men and women are urged to stay alert.
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National SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe outlined how syndicates operate. ‘Once a target has been identified, the woman befriends the victim and may suggest leaving together to another venue, a home, hotel or guesthouse. During that period, the victim’s drink is allegedly spiked.’
After the drug takes effect, accomplices reportedly rob victims of valuables, including cars, cash and cellphones. In some cases, men are said to have died after an overdose from substances used to spike drinks.
SAPS also highlighted concerns that drink-spiking is not limited to men. Several reports state women have been found assaulted, raped or dead after leaving social venues, sometimes with strangers or with people known to them.
‘Spiking, regardless of the victim’s gender, is a serious crime with severe physical and psychological consequences,’ Mathe said (SmileFM).
Police have issued safety advice for all revellers.
They recommend going out with people you trust, never leaving your drink unattended, sharing your plans with someone you trust and arranging safe transport to and from venues.
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