The incidents of alleged spiking took place in Carlow town.
Gardaí in Co. Carlow are looking into numerous complaints from students who claim that they had their drinks spiked on nights out, Breaking News reports.
The incidents of alleged spiking took place in Carlow town. None of the complaints include further allegations of sexual assault.
A spokesperson for the Gardaí said: “We are appealing to people to call the gardaí if they can assist us in this matter. These are serious incidents and have the potential to be very detrimental.”
Meanwhile, the Students’ Union at the Institute of Technology, Carlow, have launched an initiative – titled Spike Watch – which aims to raise awareness for drink spiking.
Spike Watch will also see union staff and volunteers overseeing bars and clubs in the town.
In a statement, the group said: “Unfortunately due the recent rise in spiking throughout the country and notably in Carlow, our student union is taking action.
***Attention students***
Unfortunately due the recent rise in spiking throughout the country and notably in Carlow, our student union is taking action!! Starting from tonight across all venues members of the SU and volunteers will be on site to hand out anti drink protectors 1/2 pic.twitter.com/V62KmhjBjA
— SETUSU Carlow Campus (@setusu_cw) November 3, 2021
“Across all venues members of the SU and volunteers will be on site to hand out anti drink protectors and will be educating people on anti spiking practices! If you or a friend needs any help watch out for us in our HiVis tops!! Stay Safe.”
In recent weeks, there have been numerous reports of drink spiking on nights out, both here in Ireland and in the UK.
Recently, Noeline Blackwell of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre spoke to Her about some of the messaging surrounding spiking cases.
She said: “Anyone can be a victim. It’s entirely unacceptable to attempt to poison someone by so called ‘spiking’ of drink.
“A lot of effort goes into telling women how to keep their drink safe, and how to prevent this harm happening. While that may unfortunately be necessary, every single effort should be made to stop those who are carrying out this very harmful behaviour.”
You can find out more information about what to do if you are spiked here.
