Needle spiking could be on the rise, police believe.
Officers throughout England and Wales dealt with 511 of the attacks last year, figures show.
But with 14 of the 43 forces unable to provide results, the true number is thought to be much higher.
The offence involves mainly women clubbers being unknowingly injected with drugs in packed venues.
It was reported almost 10 times per week on average in 2021.
The crime first surfaced last year as a terrifying alternative to drink spiking. Victims are typically rushed to A&E after collapsing, with a tell-tale puncture mark somewhere on their body. Among them was Rebecca Derbyshire, 27, of Stoke.
The gardener was on a hen night when she felt something sharp on her shoulder.
Rebecca said: “I saw a needle mark then started to feel sick. It’s scary it’s still happening.” Her attacker was not caught.
A National Police Chief’s Council spokesman warned: “We know there is under-reporting of this kind of offence.
“Spikings, via drink or needle, are horrific crimes. Most reports police receive are about drink spiking.
“We are calling on victims and witnesses to report drink or needle spiking attacks to their local force.”
