By Beatrice Learmouth, News Co-Deputy Editor and Will Standring, Co-Deputy Editor-in-Chief
Avon & Somerset police have confirmed they received a further three reports of needle spiking on the Clifton Triangle, a popular clubbing spot for students, between the 24th of January and 13th of February.
All the victims were aged 18 or 19, and found bruises on their arm or leg after a night out.
The bruises are believed to be caused by needles, according to medical professionals who the victims sought advice from following the incidents.
It is unclear which clubs/bars these incidents occurred in, but they were all venues on the Clifton Triangle.
The most recent incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday 13th of February, a popular student night out, when an 18-year-old woman collapsed in Daisy's nightclub and was taken to hospital, where a puncture mark was found on her leg.
Bristol Dance Society have announced they will no longer be attending clubbing socials as a society for the foreseeable future, given the increased prevalence of spiking over the last month.
In a post on Instagram, they said:
‘We are aware that spiking has been increasing in prevalence over the last month and is continuing to do so. This is something that has been experienced by members of multiple university societies and occurred last night in Daisy’s, which was part of our social.’
This comes after Avon & Somerset police confirmed a 19-year-old reported a needle spiking after a night-out at Daisy’s on the 22nd of January.
Whilst Daisy’s said they would be taking extra precautions following the report, including the requirement to show student ID upon entry, the dance society’s post claimed these additional checks were not being carried out.
Responding to these allegations, Daisy’s said that checks were in place, but they will be ‘doubling down on this to ensure students feel safe.
‘We have also hired a medic to join us on the weekends and Wednesday night socials to offer on hand medical attention to anyone who needs or asks for it.’
Dance Society ended their post by urging anyone who ever feels in danger or unwell during a night out to speak to friends, club staff or call 111.
Avon & Somerset police are continuing to encourage those with any information about the incidents to contact them.
Featured Image: Beatrice Learmouth
If you or anyone you know has been a victim of drink or drug spiking, you can report it online at: https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report/drink-and-drug-spiking/
More advice and information about drink and drug spiking can be found here: https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/victims-witnesses-and-offenders/drink-drug-spiking-guidance/
