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Nanaimo, Crime Prevention
2025-03-10 15:24 PDT
File # 2025
In recent months the Nanaimo RCMP have received several reports of drinks being spiked or tampered with in various Nanaimo nightclubs. Several individuals came forward and told police that after consuming a beverage they immediately felt unwell and had difficulty breathing. Some became nauseous and light headed and as a result, sought medical attention.
These are common symptoms of a drinks that have being spiked with GHB or what is commonly referred to as the club drug or date rape drug. Many incidents involving GHB do not get reported for a variety of reasons, and we only learn of them through social media posts. Having said that, when incidents are reported to the police, we endeavor to determine what happened and find out who is responsible, said R/Cst Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
These are common symptoms of a drinks that have being spiked with GHB or what is commonly referred to as the club drug or date rape drug. Many incidents involving GHB do not get reported for a variety of reasons, and we only learn of them through social media posts. Having said that, when incidents are reported to the police, we endeavor to determine what happened and find out who is responsible,
To assist in addressing this issue, the Nanaimo RCMP along with nightclub owners and Central Vancouver Island Crime Stoppers (CVICS) are initiating a Public Service campaign to educate and warn patrons around the dangers of tampered drinks and mixing alcohol with recreational drug use. To protect beverages, specialized drink covers are being considered along with coasters providing printed messages to educate patrons.
Crime Stoppers posters designed by 3rd year Graphic Design students at Vancouver Island University will also be placed in washrooms to warn patrons of the issue. The Nanaimo RCMP, Crime Stoppers bar owners and the Nanaimo Bar Watch program recognizes there is concern in the community around this issue and we are equally committed to addressing this issue. We are also committed to identifying those responsible for these acts and to hold them accountable for their actions. Said R/Cst Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
Crime Stoppers posters designed by 3rd year Graphic Design students at Vancouver Island University will also be placed in washrooms to warn patrons of the issue. The Nanaimo RCMP, Crime Stoppers bar owners and the Nanaimo Bar Watch program recognizes there is concern in the community around this issue and we are equally committed to addressing this issue. We are also committed to identifying those responsible for these acts and to hold them accountable for their actions.
Elaine Nelson-Hosack owner operator of Carlos O’Bryans a neighborhood pub that participates in the Nanaimo Bar Watch program said, Nanaimo bar owners are taking the lead on this because our guests health and safety is critical to us. We are mothers and fathers who welcome guests into our establishments to enjoy themselves responsibly. Excellent customer service in the hospitality industry is more than a simple transaction. It’s about providing patrons with a great experience and building customer loyalty. We work hard to make guests feel comfortable and valued, and their safety is a priority. This campaign will send the message that we are tackling this problem as a community that cares.
Nanaimo bar owners are taking the lead on this because our guests health and safety is critical to us. We are mothers and fathers who welcome guests into our establishments to enjoy themselves responsibly. Excellent customer service in the hospitality industry is more than a simple transaction. It’s about providing patrons with a great experience and building customer loyalty. We work hard to make guests feel comfortable and valued, and their safety is a priority. This campaign will send the message that we are tackling this problem as a community that cares.
If anyone has information on any incidents of spiked drinks, please contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.
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Email: gary.obrien@rcmp-grc.gc.ca Website: nanaimo.rcmp-grc.gc.ca
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