UK police target vape spiking, using new tech to combat cannabis-laced vapes linked to teen hospitalizations.

UK police are cracking down on vape spiking after teens as young as 14 were hospitalized from unknowingly using vapes laced with cannabis. Authorities, including the Metropolitan Police, are using new detection tools like near-infrared devices and smartphone-linked tech to identify illicit substances, particularly during events like Freshers Week. Operation Albenga targets party boats along the Thames, amid over 2,000 spiking allegations since March 2024, with most victims being women and girls near nightlife areas. The effort is part of a national campaign to disrupt offenders, raise awareness, and support victims, emphasizing that spiking is never the victim’s fault and urging early reporting to aid investigations and prevent further harm.