Cambridgeshire Police is introducing a number of measures, including drug testing, this week to mark National Anti-Spiking Week.

The force will be taking part in the operation across the county to prevent spiking, which is set to run until Sunday (September 22).

Officers will be carrying drug screening test kits on night-time patrols in Cambridge and Peterborough this Friday (September 20) and Saturday (September 21).

Other preventative measures will also be launched this week, including providing pubs and night clubs in key locations to give up-to-date information on how to spot and handle spiking in their premises. 

The police are going to be targeting predatory behaviour, particularly aimed at women and girls, and will be visiting universities and colleges to highlight this.

The week commencing September 16 marks Freshers' Week for many universities. With that in mind, Cambridgeshire Police will be displaying "Be Spike Aware" digital boards at both of the universities in Cambridge.

A newly revamped spiking page is now live on the Cambridgeshire Police website, which offers advice on where to get medical help, support and advice on how to report spiking.

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Detective Chief Inspector Amerjit Singh said: “I would encourage members of the public to talk to us if they have any concerns about spiking or would like advice.

“Although this week we will be focusing on engaging with communities, pubs and bars - we will use feedback from it to enhance the work we do all year round to keep our county safe by targeting predatory behaviour.

“If I could land one important message - if you spot someone acting suspiciously in a crowded area, or if you, or someone you know, has been spiked, please speak to member of bar staff or door supervisor. Always call 999 in an emergency. 

“Everyone has the right to feel safe and enjoy a night out without the fear of being spiked. Spiking has no place in Cambridgeshire.”