POLICE Scotland have been forced to issue an apology after being accused of "victim blaming" in a post about drink spiking.

There have been a rise in worrying claims of injection spiking across Scotland in recent days, with the force previously confirming an investigation had been launched.

Following the claims, Forth Valley Police Division posted on social media on Thursday to issue advice on the matter, saying "drinking alcohol can make us more vulnerable or prone to accidents".

It added: "The more you drink, the less you'll be able to spot dangerous situations so you're more likely to do something risky.

"Never leave your drink unattended. Don't take drugs. There is no 'safe' way to do so, there is always a risk.

"Stick with your friends and make sure everyone gets home safely at the end of the night."

The post quickly faced allegations of "victim blaming".

READ MORE: Firewater Glasgow introduces new anti-spiking measures amid police probe

One person wrote: "How about targeting campaigns at the perpetrators of these awful crimes and toughening punishments rather than putting the onus on the victims to 'spot dangerous situations? This post is shameful."

Another said: "Unbelievable Forth Valley Police post especially considering all the recent episodes of spiking by injection.

"Stop blaming the victims & do something to prevent drugs being taken into bars & clubs instead."

Local SNP MSP Evelyn Tweed voiced her concerns of the statement saying it is in no way "helpful".

She said: "Yesterday I welcomed Police Scotland's response on spiking however I do not believe the local messaging on social media this evening is helpful.

“Everyone should feel safe to enjoy a night out without fear. I will be raising this matter with Forth Valley Police in my response.”

 


READ MORE: Nightclub 'injection' spiking incidents probed by police across Scotland

The force have since removed the post and issued an apology.

Divisional Commander Alan Gibson, of the Forth Valley Police Division said issued said:"This was a well-intentioned post on social media which unfortunately does not reflect Police Scotland's well-established commitment to putting the blame for criminality on offenders.

"This message should not have been posted, it has been taken down and we apologise unreservedly for the concern and upset it has caused. We will address the issue with the staff member involved."

The Stirling MSP’s reaction had initially issued a statement saying she had been "reassured" the police where taking the matter seriously following their announcement of an investigation.

Earlier this week Police Scotland said they had launched a probe into alleged spikings across the full country.

The investigation comes amid claims from a number of women on social media that say they have been spiked during nights out.

Some have claimed to have been spiked ‘by injection’ and have said that they noticed red marks ‘like an injection site’ following nights out.

However, some nightclubs in Glasgow have already taken measures in to their own hands, adding additional security protocols.